PIKEVILLE, Ky. – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 12 announces work to replace the KY 979 bridge over Mud Creek (milepoint 11.36) in Floyd County starts next week, and will require a temporary closure of the aging structure near the KY 3680 intersection.

Beginning Monday, June 15, the bridge will be closed to all traffic to allow contractors to begin demolition and replacement operations. While crews will work quickly to replace the bridge, the closure is expected to remain in place through August, pending any unforeseen circumstances.

The bridge has remained in service under a 3-ton weight restriction since fall 2024 following concerns identified during inspection. Since that time, KYTC has worked to safely maintain access while evaluating long-term solutions, but continued wear and decline of the bridge’s superstructure has made its replacement necessary.

To reduce traffic impacts, KYTC worked to speed up design and project delivery while strategically scheduling the majority of construction during summer break. The cabinet expedited the bidding process and awarded a contract to Keetech/Bush & Burchett Construction to complete the work.

“We understand this closure creates an inconvenience for those who travel this route every day, and that decision was not made lightly,” said Mary Westfall-Holbrook, chief District Engineerfor District 12. “Our teams worked to keep the bridge open as long as safely possible and made accelerated replacement plans so most of the work can be completed while school is out. Our goal is to limit impacts once the new school year begins while ensuring the traveling public has a safe and reliable structure for years to come.”

Detour Information

All traffic will need to detour using KY 3680 and KY 122 for travel north and south of the bridge. For example, residents south of the bridge would follow this signed detour route:

• Travel KY 979 South
• Connect to KY 122
• Continue north to KY 3680
• Return to KY 979

Motorists should expect additional travel time and are encouraged to plan ahead. KYTC reminds drivers to obey all posted signs, respect work zones, and remain alert for construction equipment and crews in the area.

Safety remains the Cabinet’s top priority, and every effort will be made to complete the work efficiently and reopen the roadway as quickly as possible.

According to traffic counts in 2023, the bridge carries about 2,000 cars a day.