by Austin Marsman

Well, it happened again. For the eighth time in 2018, a vehicle has struck the 100th Street bridge over U.S.-131. This time it was in the southbound lane.

The bridge was hit by tall load on a semi carrying a load of empty steel containers used to haul cherries. Falling containers were strewn about, but no injuries resulted. It is unclear the extent of damage to the bridge.

The 100th Street Bridge Facebook fan page, as always, had some comic relief for the situation — posting a photo of a white flag in surrender.

The embattled bridge deck has been struck at least eight times this year by trucks hauling loads that are too tall, and it probably won’t be the last time. Most recently, a manufactured home just barley squeaked under, causing a massive backup.

The bridge is lower than most, but it’s clearly labeled. Crews have been working to replace two beams in the bridge and plan to finish by Memorial Day.

The MDOT eventually plans to do resurfacing work on the highway to increase clearance.

(Cover photo courtesy of Paul Martin)