Murray Bridge closed indefinitely
Barricades block off Murray Bridge following damage done earlier this year.
Humboldt County Engineer Ben Loots has released the findings from the recent inspection following the damage done to Murray Bridge on Tuesday, May 5.
Inspectors with Shuck-Britson Inc. (SBI) inspected the damage on Wednesday, June 10.
After a thorough inspection, SBI has recommended that Murray Bridge remain closed to traffic due to the following findings:
- The west rails were hit and failed on both sides. The south beam rolled and failed as it was attached to the rail.
- The top steel rail is broken and ripped off in multiple places.
- Collision damage without tearing of steel was found on five members on the south side and one member with tearing.
- Collision damage without tearing of steel was found on three members on the north side and four members with tearing.
- Bowing in seven vertical members.
- Rotation (twisting) in seven vertical members.
Altogether there were eight fracture-critical members that were damaged and displaced, including two with significant displacement.
Murray Bridge was shut down immediately following the incident for safety reasons, awaiting the results of the inspection.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Law Enforcement Center.
