KTC calls for removal of closed Frankfort bridge ahead of new city project

FRANKFORT, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — Leaders with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KTC) are seeking a contractor to remove the Broadway Bridge in Frankfort a week after debris fell from the structure, which has been closed to road and pedestrian traffic since 1993.

The KTC said in a news release on Friday that officials issued an “expedited advertisement” for a contractor to remove the bridge after railing and sidewalk debris fell from it on Aug. 9.

Transportation leaders said that the U.S. Coast Guard has been working with Frankfort city leaders to make a temporary safety zone at Kentucky River mile markers 65.5 to 66, restricting all vessels from traveling under the structure until Sept. 6.

“We’re taking swift action to do all we can to reopen the waterway as soon as possible with safety leading the way,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray.

KTC officials said initial demolition plans include removing the bridge spans near the city shoreline first to reopen the river to boat traffic and restore park access.

As for the steel beams that form the bridge, Frankfort leaders said the superstructure would be taken down carefully to preserve as much of the structure as possible so that it could be used in a “future pedestrian crossing project.”

The salvaged pieces of the existing Broadway Bridge are to be used in the construction of a new pedestrian crossing in the same area, per a news release.

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The KTC said plans for a new pedestrian crossing that used the trusses of Broadway Bridge were agreed upon in November 2023, and that the goal is to begin construction for the project in 2025 “as funding allows.”

KTC officials said city leaders placed safety fencing and signs to block the walking trail and areas near the bridge at River View Park.

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