Traffic Alert: Lane Closures on the U.S. 17/421 Thomas Rhodes Bridge begin Monday

Starting Monday, Aug. 10, and ending Thursday, Aug. 20, the N.C. Department of Transportation will close the right lane in both directions on the U.S. 17/421 Thomas Rhodes Bridge over the Northeast Cape Fear River in Wilmington. The closure will take place from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. each day and will allow crews to repair damaged concrete on the bridge. One lane will remain open at all times.

This work is being performed after inspections revealed areas of spalling, a condition in which the concrete has broken up, flaked, or eroded. Spalling is usually the result of environmental stresses on the bridge. Crews will remove the damaged concrete and replace it with new, high-strength concrete.

Although the bridge will not be closed to traffic, drivers are urged to seek alternate routes.  Motorists are also advised to use caution while traveling in the area and to expect delays. NCDOT reminds motorists to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the posted speed limit.

All bridges go through a natural deterioration or aging process, although each bridge is unique in the way it ages. Regular inspections help the department identify whether a bridge needs maintenance and repair, then schedule them accordingly. If NCDOT inspectors find a safety concern, the bridge will be repaired or closed immediately until the repairs can be made. If necessary, NCDOT will post weight restrictions on a bridge. The department will not keep a bridge open if it is determined to be unsafe. For more information on bridge inspections, including definitions of terms and how inspections work, please visit the North Carolina Bridge Information web page.

Source:  N.C. Department of Transportation