Knoxville’s oldest bridge will remain closed for awhile

from WVLT

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee (WDEF) – The city of Knoxville has gotten some bad news about a major bridge downtown crossing the Tennessee River.

The 126 year old Gay Street Bridge was shut down in June to both vehicles and pedestrians.

Inspectors found a distorted piece in the bridge that could have buckled.

Now a follow up inspection says they will need more studies before reopening the bridge.

As a result, the city will hire an engineer to create a plan for repairs.

City leaders hope they can find a way to at least allow pedestrian traffic while the repairs are made.

It has been 20 years now since the last major renovation to the city’s oldest bridge.