Bullitt Hill bridge washes out again; county disputes FEMA cost estimate

Henry County Fiscal Court members said the Bullitt Hill bridge washed out again and discussed both short-term access measures and longer-term replacement options.

The court heard that local estimates to replace the bridge are about $315,000 while FEMA has indicated an eligible cost near $90,000, a gap local officials said would not cover removing the existing structure. The court explored temporary fixes — adding concrete fill and imposing a 3-ton load limit — to preserve emergency access while contractors and inspectors assess the site.

“[T]he cost to replace that bridge $315,000, and FEMA seem to think we should be able to get it done for 90,000,” the chair said, noting that most local contractors would not remove the old bridge for $90,000.

County staff said they would await the bridge inspector’s report before deciding whether a short-term concrete fill or a restricted low-load reopening is feasible. Officials also said they plan to apply for a separate bridge-replacement program whose applications open in the second week of May.

Why it matters: the bridge serves local traffic and emergency responders; extended closure affects routes for residents and first responders in parts of the county. The court emphasized limiting heavy trucks on any temporary crossing and prioritizing a permanent replacement through grant programs.

Next steps: inspectors will complete their assessment and the county will submit an application in May for the bridge-replacement program; the court will revisit repair options after the inspection and as grant opportunities develop.