12th Street Bridge Closed After Crash In Ashland

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has closed the 12th street bridge in Ashland after the structure was damaged in a car crash.

The bridge goes across the Ohio River from Ohio to Kentucky linking US 52 and US 23.

After inspecting steel beams, engineers imposed a 10-ton weight limit on the bridge Tuesday, but have since decided to completely close the bridge.

Crews are trying to figure out the best way to limit traffic disruption while still keeping drivers safe.

Chief Engineer Bart Bryant said, "Right now, our priority is the safety of motorists. While we understand the inconvenience this bridge closure will cause, it is the right thing to do in terms of protecting the traveling public."

In order to reach Ashland, drivers coming from Portsmouth can use the Jesse Stuart Memorial Bridge at Greenup.

From Chesapeake, Ohio, drivers can use the Nick Joe Rahall II bridge at Huntington.