Link to Original Story

Cairo - Wickliffe bridge reopens after barge hit

Posted: Jan 05, 2012 5:38 AM CST
Updated: Jan 05, 2012 5:47 AM CST

By Duncan Phenix

CAIRO, IL (KFVS) - A bridge that carries traffic across the Mississippi River between Wycliffe and Cairo has been reopened after a barge struck one the piers.

The Cairo Bridge carries U.S. Routes 51, 60, and 62.

Keith Todd of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said a harbor boat pilot reported he was moving an empty barge when it struck a bridge support at about 1:30 a.m. Thursday morning.

The bridge was closed while it was inspected for damage and it was reopened shortly after 5 a.m.

According to the US Coast Guard, it was the Motor Vessel Al Grey, a harbor boat, that was pushing the barge when it hit the side of one of the piers.

According to the Alexander County Sheriff's Department, the bridge may be re closed after sunrise for another inspection.