Bridge weight limit drops even lower

The County Hwy. M bridge over the Chippewa River, in Holcombe, will have a 20-ton weight limit placed in effect immediately. The bridge’s weight limit went from 40 tons down to 30 tons, in February, because of distortion in several of the bridge’s steel connection plates.

At that time, Chippewa County contracted with a structural engineering consultant for a detailed structural analysis of the connection plates and other steel components. The recommendation from the consultant is to lower the existing weight limit down to 20 tons immediately, because of the decreased load carrying capacity of these damaged connection plates.

Chippewa County Highway Department bridge inspection staff will continue to monitor the condition of the bridge, to ensure it remains safe for vehicles under 20 tons in weight. They will also continue to work closely with the WisDOT’s Bureau of Structures and the structural engineering consultant, to determine available rehabilitation options for this 80-year old structure.

If rehabilitation is found to be too costly or ineffective, the county will need to search for bridge replacement funding. At this time, there is no known timeframe for any improvements that would result in removal of the 20-ton weight limit.

It is anticipated that the weight limit will not increase above 20 tons for an extended period of time.

The highway department requests the public’s cooperation in utilizing alternate routes, in order to keep all loads of 20 tons or larger off this structure. The department understands the inconvenience this causes for some businesses; however, the safety of citizens is always the department’s top priority.

Any questions regarding this issue can be directed to the Chippewa County Highway Department, at 715-726-7914.