A routine inspection revealed severe decay in one of the bridge’s timber piles along with rust and corrosion in sections of the  steel girders. NCDOT staff determined that the issues required immediate attention and closed the bridge for the public’s safety.

Crews are gathering materials and equipment to start repairs tomorrow. A floating barge will be used as a work platform to drive piles through the bridge deck and install a cross-cap, providing support while multiple beams are cut out and replaced.