The George County Board of Supervisors is announcing the Merrill Bridge over the Pascagoula River will be intermittently closed starting Thursday, January 19 through mid-February. The temporary closure is necessary to allow bridge engineers to safely inspect, study, and test the 84 year old metal spans.

Drivers will not be allowed to pass during inspection hours, typically from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (times may vary). When possible, the bridge will reopen for local traffic crossings most evenings and weekends.

Photo Cutline:  Crews began documenting and inspecting the Merrill Bridge the first week in January. The bridge will closed on Jan. 17 through mid-February.

The County is examining several of the bridge’s support joints and connections which are suffering from oxidation damage. Crews will use a combination of fixed and mobile work platforms to thoroughly examine all sides of the bridge.

“This is a precautionary inspection of the bridge,” Supervisor Larry Havard, Beat 4 explains. “Once the tests are complete the bridge will be reopened to traffic. This bridge is a true county transportation treasure both historically and logistically.”

Drivers will have a lengthy detour during closures. Residents will need to use the alternative routes of Highway 57 and Highway 26.

“It is a long detour but we deliberately waited until the end of ‘dog hunting season’ to minimize the inconvenience for our residents. We must take steps to preserve the Merrill Bridge that way it can serve residents for years to come,” Havard said.

The Merrill Bridge crosses the head waters of the Pascagoula River and is one of the oldest metal span bridges in the State of Mississippi. The bridge is designated as an official Mississippi Landmark by the state’s Department of Archives and History.

For more information on Beat 4 road projects, call Mr. Havard at 601-947-7506.