Louisiana Bridge Closed After Barge Strikes It
"We know the closure of the Sunshine Bridge is an inconvenience for many travelers, and we will expedite the emergency repairs," said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. "That being said, safety is our number one concern, and we have to ensure the bridge can safely handle traffic before it's reopened."
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced Oct. 12 that the Sunshine Bridge, LA 70, over the Mississippi River in Donaldsonville, La., will be closed indefinitely after a barge on the river hit the bridge early Oct. 12, causing severe damage to one of the main load-carrying members of the bridge. The bridge will be closed until the necessary repairs are made and DOTD determines it is safe for the traveling public; the agency's announcement said it has identified a contractor to make the necessary repairs once it has determined what those repairs will be.
"We know the closure of the Sunshine Bridge is an inconvenience for many travelers, and we will expedite the emergency repairs," said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. "That being said, safety is our number one concern, and we have to ensure the bridge can safely handle traffic before it's reopened."
DOTD inspectors are on site using drones and other technology to inspect the bridge for any additional damage. The Sunshine Bridge opened to traffic in 1964 and was named after former Gov. Jimmie Davis' hit song "You Are My Sunshine."