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Officials report structural damage to 400 South bridge; engineers review options, funding uncertain
Summary
Highway staff described unexpected structural damage to the 400 South bridge and said engineers are still assessing whether it must remain closed; county staff outlined potential federal 80/20 match and plans to apply for Community Crossings funds.
Henry County highway staff told county commissioners that the 400 South bridge east of County Road 103 has structural damage under review by multiple engineers and may remain closed until repairs or replacement occur.
During the budget wrap-up session, highway staff said engineers have found a crack at a pier in the middle of the bridge and characterized the damage as different from typical bridge deterioration. “This bridge has a pier in the middle of it, and it's cracked at that pier,” a highway representative said. Staff explained that if heavy loads are placed on either side of the pier the bridge could “fold in half.” Engineers are reviewing whether the bridge can be reopened with weight restrictions or must stay closed until replaced.
Officials said preliminary assessments indicate the damage may result from repeated overloading over time rather than a single collision. Multiple engineers are reviewing the structure; staff said some reviewing engineers had not seen this type of damage before. Highway staff said they hoped to have more clarity in the near term but did not provide a firm date for a final determination.
County staff discussed funding options if the bridge requires replacement. They said a federal-aid route would likely be pursued for a full replacement, with an 80/20 match often cited for federal aid grants. Staff also said they plan to submit a project list by the state program’s new October 1 deadline to apply for Community Crossings funds, though they described competition and state priorities as making receipt uncertain this year.
Commissioners and staff noted other bridge projects remain on the county’s multi-year list and that they have set aside funds in prior budgets in anticipation of construction starting in 2028. Staff said certain projects remain in preliminary phases — environmental reviews and utility permitting — and that construction inspections will not begin until construction actually starts.
No immediate decision on closure was recorded at the meeting; highway staff said the bridge is currently closed and that reopening, if possible, could involve weight restrictions.
County staff recommended continued coordination with engineers, applying for available grant programs and keeping the commissioners apprised of engineering findings and funding strategies.
