News Summary
Repairs for the 127-year-old Gay Street Bridge in Knoxville have commenced to enhance pedestrian safety. The bridge was closed due to serious structural issues discovered during inspection. A barge is being constructed for repair work, with a completion target set for December 2025. The total repair cost is estimated at nearly $1.95 million, but the bridge will remain closed to vehicle traffic after repairs. The city is also exploring options for a possible full bridge replacement.
Knoxville – Repairs for the historic Gay Street Bridge are now underway, with work focused on ensuring the structure is safer for pedestrian traffic. The 127-year-old bridge was closed in June 2024 following a routine inspection by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), which revealed serious structural issues requiring immediate attention.
Although contractors are currently not visible around the bridge itself, crews have begun constructing a barge near Governor Ned McWherter Park. This barge will serve as the primary platform for the repair work to be conducted on the bridge. Mayor Indya Kincannon has expressed relief at the commencement of repairs and extended appreciation to the community for their patience during the closure.
After the initial closure, further assessments conducted by engineering firm Gresham Smith identified multiple structural problems, including cracked bolts, distorted bridge elements, and warped steel. Following these findings, a comprehensive repair plan was finalized last week, allowing work to officially begin. Charles Blalock & Sons, a company recognized for its expertise in bridge repair, has been awarded the contract. The firm has previously collaborated with agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The estimated total cost for the repairs is capped at $1,944,929.50, with a target completion date set for December 31, 2025. During the repair process, load testing will be conducted to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge, contributing to its safety for pedestrians, cyclists, emergency vehicles, and Knoxville Area Transit buses.
It’s important to note that once the repairs are completed, the Gay Street Bridge will not reopen to passenger vehicles. Future use of the bridge will be limited to non-vehicle traffic, emphasizing the city’s commitment to pedestrian safety.
In light of potential long-term solutions, the city has also sought cost estimates for a complete replacement of the bridge. Initial figures indicate that a total replacement could range between $60 million and $200 million. However, work to secure funding and collaboration from state and federal partners is still ongoing, complicating timelines for complete replacement due to a significant backlog of transportation projects in the region.
As construction progresses, the city plans to begin repairs during the May or June timeframe. The ongoing efforts reflect the city’s dedication to maintaining its historic structures while ensuring safety for all citizens. While the repairs are underway, the focus remains on creating a safe and functional environment for pedestrians in Knoxville.
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Additional Resources
- Inside of Knoxville
- WBIR News
- Knox News
- WATE News
- UT Daily Beacon
- Wikipedia: Gay Street Bridge
- Google Search: Gay Street Bridge Knoxville
- Google Scholar: Gay Street Bridge Knoxville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gay Street Bridge
- Google News: Gay Street Bridge Knoxville
