The southbound lanes of US 84/SR 38/Bainbridge bypass closed today at Spring Creek Road as repairs begin on the bridge damaged last month.

Bypass traffic is being routed up and over the ramps at the SR 253/Spring Creek Road exit.

The contractor is allowed to detour traffic for seven consecutive days. After the seven day period the contractor may close a single lane as needed. However, single lane closures are not permitted between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The boom of an excavator hit the Spring Creek Road bridge May 21. The bypass southbound lanes and the bridge were closed at that time.

Southern Concrete Construction Co. was called in on an emergency basis to remove damaged beams, which required removing part of the bridge deck. The Georgia Department of Transportation solicited bids for emergency repairs and the contract was awarded to Southern.

Work could not begin until the bridge beams were manufactured. The bridge will remain closed until repairs are finished, which is expected to take three or four weeks. Motorists are using the SR 253 Spur and US 27 Business/Dothan Road as a detour.