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The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) found out about a problem at the Houston Ship Channel Bridge during a routine inspection over the weekend.
It’s an inspection they do every two years. TxDOT spokeswoman Deidrea George said crews found some corrosion on a localized portion of the bridge.
"The assessment was to go ahead and make those repairs," explained George. "So we shut down two southbound lanes from the Port of Houston to Manchester to assess the bridge and the corrosion."
George said TxDOT also decided to close a third southbound lane.
"That actually is simply so the crews can get up under the bridge in that area and make those repairs," she added.
George told News 88.7 they hope to reopen those closed lanes by Tuesday afternoon. But until then, southbound traffic remains heavy and commuters may want to find another route.
Right now three right mainlanes on I-610 E. Loop SB from the Port of Houston to Manchester are closed to facilitate repairs of the Houston Ship Channel Bridge. One NB lane closed as well. Seek alternate route to bypass closure. Closure will remain in place until further notice. pic.twitter.com/xnTICDIqhO
— TxDOT- HOU District (@TxDOTHouston) December 17, 2018
