Montgomery bridge compromised after fiery 18-wheeler collision

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August 30, 2023

The South Perry Street bridge in Montgomery remains shut down following a devastating collision involving an 18-wheeler and three other vehicles on a portion of Interstate 85 southbound on Tuesday.

The semi-truck, loaded with lumber, struck the support columns of the South Perry Street bridge, leading to an intense fire that consumed the 18-wheeler and significantly damaged the bridge and its foundation.

Montgomery officials said there were no major injuries in the wreck, which happened about 7:25 a.m. Tuesday.

#NEW An I-85 crash has significantly damaged a Montgomery overpass.

The bridge’s support column is leaning over. All southbound lanes near the South Union Street exit and the South Perry Street bridge are closed for repairs. @wsfa12news https://t.co/7uritmacjm pic.twitter.com/rtnQB10KhQ

— Brady Talbert (@BradyTalbert) August 29, 2023

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) said emergency repairs to the South Perry Street were completed before 10 a.m. Wednesday, allowing for the reopening of two lanes of I-85 underneath.

ALDOT officials have confirmed that reinforcements have been put in place to ensure the bridge remains stable and safe for vehicles passing below.

However, the bridge will remain off-limits to pedestrians and vehicular traffic until permanent fixes can be carried out. While a specific timeline for these comprehensive repairs hasn’t been disclosed, ALDOT assured that they will provide updates as plans become finalized.

Amazingly everyone walked away from this 4 car accident. Happened around 7:30 am. Truck filled with wood slammed into cement pillar of Perry St. and caught fire. Right now all I-85 south lanes closed at Eastern Blvd. Some smaller cars could be able to go past that point soon. pic.twitter.com/hhpafpqmtR

— Judd Davis (@BamaJD) August 29, 2023

Montgomery Police Chief Daryl Albert said at a press conference that “the city of Montgomery is open,” however, it’s unclear how long it will take to repair the bridge infrastructure.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

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