Pittsburgh Bridges Reopen Following Chaos on the Ohio River: 26 Barges Break Loose, Marina Damaged

Saturday morning saw the reopening of a pair of Pittsburgh-area bridges, their closure prompted by a dramatic event the previous night. Authorities reported that 26 barges broke loose and drifted uncontrollably down the Ohio River, causing damage to a marina along the way.

The bridges, positioned approximately 2.5 miles apart, were forced to close as a precautionary measure after the barges, predominantly laden with dry cargo, became untethered following a night of record-breaking rainfall. The McKees Rocks Bridge, initially closed as a safety measure, underwent inspection by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation bridge unit, revealing no structural damage, leading to its swift reopening. Meanwhile, the West End Bridge remained shut in both directions, with rail traffic also suspended on the adjacent rail bridge to Brunot Island, as confirmed by Pittsburgh city officials.

Colonel Nicholas Melin, commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, assured the public that all bridges were accessible to vehicular traffic, with no reports indicating any impacts on the West End Bridge. Campbell Transportation Company, responsible for the wayward barges, provided an update stating that 25 of the 26 barges had been located, with 17 safely secured and the remaining eight lodged against the Emsworth Locks and Dams. Fortunately, no hazardous materials were onboard any of the barges.

The incident, while disruptive, fortunately resulted in no injuries reported. However, Peggy’s Harbor, a cherished family-owned marina nestled along the Ohio River, suffered damage due to the barge drift. The extent of the damage remains uncertain at this time.

This unsettling event follows closely on the heels of the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, a mere two weeks prior, underscoring the vulnerability of infrastructure to maritime mishaps. As details continue to unfold, this remains a developing story, poised for further updates.

As authorities assess the aftermath of the Ohio River barge incident and the impacted marina's condition, communities along the river and beyond remain vigilant. The swift response and coordination among emergency services helped avert further damage and ensure public safety. However, the event underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks posed by unpredictable weather and maritime activity. With ongoing efforts to secure the loose barges and restore normalcy to affected areas, the incident serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required to navigate the challenges of maintaining vital infrastructure amidst dynamic environmental conditions.