U.S. 51 Ohio River “Cairo” Bridge closed between Kentucky and Illinois as repairs get underway

The U.S. 51 Ohio River “Cairo” Bridge remains closed this week as the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet looks to address needed repairs.

According to a news release, the bridge connecting Wickliffe, Kentucky and Cairo, Illinois was closed on Monday for a special inspection after a motorist identified something concerning on the bridge deck. That inspection was completed late Monday, where early findings indicate that a repair is required on the approach on the Kentucky side of the bridge.

Now, engineers are meeting the contractor to determine a timeline for repairs. Motorists should expect the bridge to remain closed until those repairs are complete.

Motorists can detour via the I-24 Ohio River Bridge between Paducah and Metropolis at the state line.