Fallen pieces don’t affect bridge’s structural integrity
This photo shows an area where the concrete has broken off, next to an area that is still intact. (Photo courtesy of Todd Myers)
Concrete pieces from the bridge fell near the boat landing on the Marquette riverfront. The area was closed for several days while the issue was rectified. (Photo courtesy of Meaghan Schneider)
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times Editor
The Marquette boat landing opened again Thursday, Sept. 21, after being closed for several days when pieces from the Marquette-Joliet Bridge fell in that area. No injuries or damage were reported.
According to Crawford County Highway Department Superintendent Todd Myers, when the bridge deck was poured, an extra four-inch strip of concrete was left between the steel girders and the underside of the bridge.
“Over time, it separates from the girders,” he explained. “With the traffic and vibrations, it cracks and comes off.”
Those concrete pieces are what fell last week.
“It doesn’t affect the structural integrity of the bridge,” Myers assured. “It’s fine.”
Workers went up in a lift to break loose any other cracked pieces that could become a hazard. When the bridge is inspected each year, he said workers also check these areas, removing any pieces that could fall.
