Olive Road Bridge Hit Again in Augusta
The train bridge over Olive Road in Augusta has been hit again. That’s happened too many times to count over the years.
Today, the bridge was hit by a vehicle around 10:30 am, causing damage to the bridge and the supporting beams protecting it. The driver left the scene. The damage has left a section of Olive Road closed for the time being.
Statement from CSX about the Closure:
“CSX bridge inspectors conducted a thorough inspection of the Olive Street Bridge following today’s vehicle strike and determined that the track was moved out of alignment as a result of the incident. The track was immediately taken out of service and resources are being deployed to conduct repairs. The roadway will remain closed to traffic until repairs can be completed.”
Those repairs, according to CSX, could take about three months to complete. Based on history, it’s a matter of time before the Olive Road bridge is hit again.
Traffic will be Detoured
All traffic will be detoured to White Road and Kissingbower Road, until further notice.
Despite warning signs, striping on the road, speed bumps and multiple warning devices, the low railroad bridge continues to be a target.
Augusta Commissioners discussed the possibility of installing a chain curtain during their September meeting. A signal arm that’s suspended in the air would have chains with PVC pipes attached that would be at the same level as the bridge. The chain curtain would be a warning to drivers that the vehicle won’t clear the bridge if the chain curtain hits it. The suggestion, however, hasn’t moved forward. The project would come at an estimated cost of $60,000 to $80,000. City officials said they would seek partial funding from CSX, since the bridge is theirs.
“The road authority would be the appropriate entity to provide comment on potential solutions for motorists. We continue to urge vehicle operators to pay attention when driving, adhere to the advance warning and posted bridge clearance signs, and make sure that their vehicle can safely clear the bridge before proceeding,” said CSX today.
