Brent Spence Bridge at Ohio-Kentucky border on I-75 remains closed; bridge used for detours also closed

COVINGTON, Kentucky — The Brent Spence Bridge will be closed in both directions for at least several days after two semis crashed Wednesday morning causing a fire and a chemical spill, said Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.

“We ought to be prepared for more disruption, potentially more disruption than that," Beshear said. "“This is a very important bridge. Not just for the state, but for the nation.”

The Roebling Bridge, which motorists were using as a detour, had to be closed Wednesday night after numerous semi-tractor trailers ignored the weight limit and drove across. The weight limit of the bridge is 11 tons, which is more than even an empty semi or trailer, according to our partners at WCPO.

Beshear said its not out of the realm of possibilities that the impact could last weeks, but believes the bridge will be repairable.

The Governor urged for patience as on-site inspectors work to determine the extent of damage to the structure. The inspections had not yet begun around 12:15 p.m. Wednesday due to the extreme temperature of the bridge from the fire.

The crash happened in the northbound lanes on the lower deck of the bridge. A fire started, and police had to close the upper southbound deck of the bridge as black smoke billowed over the bridge.

The fire was contained by noon.

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There were no reported injuries from this crash, Beshear said.

“We can fix a bridge, but we can’t bring back a life,” the Governor said.

Beshear said he’s expecting to speak with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao about any potential federal involvement.

The Kentucky Governor is expected to have another update later this afternoon in partnership with Ohio Department of Transportation officials.

Cox Media Group