Elizabethton’s Broad Street bridge opening delayed

The Broad St. bridge in Elizabethton, damaged by Hurricane Helene in September last year, will remain closed for a month longer than expected. The Tennessee Department of Transportation said the Broad Street bridge will now reopen in early July. TDOT had expected to have the bridge opened in late May. TDOT said East Tennessee’s unique geological features under the bridge is a contributor to the delay. Work at the bridge over the next few months will include diverting water around the bridge’s footers and dewatering those areas. Crews will also be tasked with drilling through rock and pouring new footers. Drivers are asked to avoid the area while the work continues.