Const. Barge Breaks Loose, Strikes Bridge

Sept. 17, 2020

A Skanska construction barge broke loose Tuesday, struck the fishing pier and lodged itself under the new Three Mile Bridge, forcing closure until crews can access potential damage to the structure or pilings. 

The barge broke loose sometime around 8 a.m., according to Pensacola News Journal, as Hurricane Sally swept storms in the Pensacola area. The Three Mile Bridge was closed just before 9 a.m. due in part to the barge breaking loose and in part to sustained tropical storm force winds. It will not reopen until the winds die down and the bridge is inspected for safety from the barge hit. 

The construction barge currently remains underneath the bridge, as it is too dangerous for crews to attempt to move it right now. The Pensacola Bay is experiencing wave heights up to 10 feet.