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CHARLESTON - Cracks discovered in some of the structural welds led to Monday's closure of the Jennings Randolph Bridge connecting Chester and East Liverpool, according to information released Tuesday by the West Virginia Division of Highways.
A safety inspection of the bridge by a team from Modjeski and Masters discovered the cracking, which DOH officials said was not visible to the naked eye, but could cause future issues if not addressed.
"Our aggressive bridge inspection program caught the issue before it could turn into a larger problem," WVDOH State Bridge Engineer Tracy Brown said. "It allows us to be proactive instead of reactive and make sure this bridge and all our bridges are safe and useful for years to come."
DOH bridge engineers are finalizing plans for repairs to the span, which carries U.S. 30 across the Ohio River. Officials noted updates will be provided as the repair plans progress. DOH said Monday the bridge would be closed "indefinitely."
Motorists have been advised the official detour routes are to include traveling south on West Virginia Route 2 to Weirton, or Ohio Route 7 to Steubenville, then crossing the Veterans Memorial Bridge.
The Jennings Randolph Bridge was opened in 1977, replacing the former Chester Bridge. The 3,400-foot-span is named for Jennings Randolph, who was serving in the U.S. Senate while the bridge was under construction.