Partial bridge closures planned for I-55 in the coming weeks

Those traveling to and through Memphis in the coming weeks from West Memphis will have to endure yet another bridge shutdown, but it’s only a partial one that was planned long before the Interstate 40 bridge was closed in May due to a fractured support beam.

The inspection of the I-55 bridge was scheduled prior to the I-40 Mississippi River Bridge closure, but could not be completed while all traffic was diverted through the I-55 Mississippi River crossing, according to the Arkansas Department of Transportation.

Weather permitting, crews will put the following lane closures into place:

Wed. 8/11 – Thu. 8/19 | 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. | Outside SB Lane

Wed. 8/18 – Thu. 8/26 | 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. | Outside NB Lane

The I-40 bridge was closed May 11 after a fracture was discovered. It was completely re-opened by Aug. 2. The same bridge was temporarily closed Monday morning (Aug. 9) after an emergency call was received, according to Talk Business & Politics content partner KAIT8.

Someone reportedly threatened to jump from the bridge, but no injuries were reported in relation to the incident. Traffic resumed shortly after it was closed.