PADUCAH, KY (News First) — The U.S. 45 Ohio River “Brookport” Bridge connecting Paducah and Brookport has been closed due to a head-on collision. The duration of the closure remains uncertain at this time. As a precaution, KYTC bridge inspectors are en route to assess the bridge once the crash site is cleared. Motorists are advised to take an alternate route via the Interstate 24 Ohio River Bridge.
The Brookport Bridge, also known as the Irvin S. Cobb Bridge, spans the Ohio River and accommodates approximately 5,000 vehicles daily between Paducah, KY, and Brookport, IL. Notably, the U.S. 45 Ohio River “Brookport” Bridge has specific restrictions: a 15-ton load limit, an 8 ft. load width restriction, and a 9 ft. 6 in. vehicle height restriction. These limitations prohibit most commercial trucks and all STAA Trucks. Additionally, large recreational vehicles, farm equipment, and permitted loads of any kind are not allowed to cross the bridge.
The 5,385 ft. structure, situated at Ohio River navigation mile point 937.3, was opened to traffic in 1929.
