Sherman Minton Bridge News

New information from the Coast Guard about two barges still unsecured after four got loose on the Ohio River Tuesday. One barge is still stuck at the McAlpine Dam. Tugboats are keeping an eye on it in case it becomes dislodged. That barge spilled nearly 3,000 tons of liquid fertilizer, but a Coast Guard spokeswoman says high water diluted it. Another barge that lost its load of salt is submerged near the Sherman Minton Bridge. Source: WHAS

A barge was lodged against the K & I Railroad Bridge last night, leaking hot asphalt and diesel fuel into the Ohio River, as reported by the Louisville Courier-Journal. It was one of three barges that broke loose from their tow January 26 near McAlpine Locks, with two going over the dam's spillway. The Sherman Minton Bridge was closed briefly about 7:30 p.m, but reopened minutes later, when it appeared the barge was sinking. The barge was buckling, turned on its side against two pilings of the K & I. People who live near the area were complaining of diesel fumes. Tests showed the concentration of diesel to be one part per million. Authorities couldn't tell how much diesel or asphalt had leaked into the river because of darkness.