2008 Barge Collision
See also: June 2008 Midwest FloodOn June 9, 2008 the bridge was struck by a number of runaway barges shortly after 8:00 pm. Fifteen barges — which were loaded with corn, soybeans, and iron ore - struck one of the pillars on the eastern side of the main channel. Unsure of whether or not the bridge was stable, authorities temporarily closed the bridge until an inspection could be performed. Traffic was rerouted on to the Dubuque-Wisconsin Bridge a few miles to the north.
On June 10 the Iowa Department of Transportation inspected the bridge and determined that it was safe for traffic. By 2:30pm they had reopened the bridge to traffic. Authorities believe that rapid currents present in the Mississippi River had caused the barges to come loose and strike the bridge. The pilot and crew of the barge tested negative for alcohol intoxication, with drug tests pending, and foul play was not suspected in this case.
Read more about this topic: Julien Dubuque Bridge
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