I-275 bridge isn't a quick fix

A big rig is forced to turn around on the Kentucky side of the Combs-Hehl Bridge. The contractor is paying off-duty Campbell County police officers to enforce the ban while repairs are made to the eastbound bridge. (The Enquirer/Patrick Reddy)

The Associated Press

10/13/2008

FORT THOMAS, Ky. — Kentucky transportation officials say a ban on truck traffic and lane closures will remain in effect into November on the Interstate 275 bridge upriver from Cincinnati.

The Kentucky Enquirer quoted Transportation Cabinet spokeswoman Nancy Wood as saying inspections could continue through November.

One lane remains closed on each span of the twin Combs-Hehl bridges over the Ohio River.

On Oct. 1, inspectors found a cracked splice plate at the top of northbound span.

The state then banned any vehicles weighing more than three tons.

Wood said no more cracked plates have been found and the state has begun the process to replace the half-inch-thick connecting plate between two steel beams.