Evaluations are underway after an overpass over US Highway 50 in far west Emporia was struck for the second time in over a year Friday afternoon.
According to Jeri Biehler of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, initial indications are the bridge may have suffered some damage after a semi hauling an oversized load clipped the overpass near Emporia’s Flying J Friday. The full scope of the damage is currently undetermined; however, Biehler says it does not appear extensive enough to warrant a closure of the bridge.
A KTA team will be taking a “closer look” at the damage and developing a plan, if necessary, early next week.
3:00 pm Friday: UPDATE: Traffic resuming around scene of vehicle accident and bridge strike on US Highway 50 Friday afternoon
Traffic is once again moving in the 4200 Block of US Highway 50 following a vehicle accident involving the KTA overpass that was damaged a year ago.
According to Lyon County Sgt. Danny Broyles, the accident occurred as a semi was traveling westbound carrying what appeared to be an overhead bin. The bin reportedly struck the overpass and caused the load to spill onto the roadway, leading authorities to condense traffic until the situation could be cleaned up.
As of 2:30 pm, eastbound traffic is fully open while westbound traffic is down to a single lane with the Kansas Department of Transportation directing traffic. As of yet, there is no word on damage to the overpass or if any repairs will be needed.
This is the same structure that was struck by an articulating boom, which damaged multiple I-beams on the overpass requiring significant repairs last April. Stay with KVOE, KVOE.com and KVOE social media for more information as it develops.
2:20 pm Friday:
Travelers are being asked to avoid the 4200 block of US Highway 50 following a second bridge strike in just a year and a half.
