The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a 180-day closure of the State Road 441 bridge over the Wabash River in Vincennes for rehabilitation.
Beginning on or around Oct. 3, Beaty Construction, Inc. will resume operations to complete a $3.2 million project to rehabilitate the historical bridge connecting Vincennes to Westport, Illinois. Work will include cleaning, joint sealing, façade repair and pavement overlay. This work was originally scheduled to take place in March, however, crews discovered the bridge was a roosting site for the endangered Indiana Brown Bat. Federal regulations restrict work that could potentially disturb the habitat of the Indiana Bat between April 1 and Oct. 1. During the restriction period, contractors were able to perform light activities including painting and cleaning operations.
The bridge closure is expected to last 180 calendar days, dependent upon weather conditions. During that time, motorists should use the official detour using Illinois 33, U.S. 50 and U.S. 41. The closure will be in place around the clock until the completion of the project. INDOT urges drivers to slow down and stay alert near crews.