Staff report

IRONTON — Following nearly two months of construction that required daytime closure of the Ironton-Russell Bridge, a preservation and rehabilitation project is nearing completion, and the bridge is now open to traffic.

Contractors for the Ohio Department of Transportation have completed most major construction on the project that included repairing the bridge deck, grid panels, lighting and guardrail, as well as addressing specific fatigue areas and updating the strain gage monitoring system.

“Construction has gone very well, and the contractors have been able to stay within the 60-day timeframe allotted for daytime closure of the bridge,” said ODOT District 9 Deputy Director James Brushart.

“Projects such as this create a significant impact not only to motorists, but to the people who live and work in the area, so we truly appreciate the patience and support of those from both the Ironton and Russell communities who were affected by this project.”

Although major construction has been completed, there is finishing work which remains, and an additional day of closure will be necessary for some joint repair, laying asphalt and striping. Currently, this one-day closure is scheduled for Monday, October 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting.

Armstrong Steel Erectors of Newark, Ohio, was awarded a contract in the amount of approximately $1.1 million to complete the Ironton-Russell Bridge preservation project, and the scheduled completion date for all work is October 31.

With the exception of next Monday, the bridge will remain open to traffic while crews finish construction, maintaining traffic in one lane with the aid of flaggers as needed.