Uncnfirmed report that bridge has been closed due to additional settling of bents. 2 weeks to fix ?
EDIT/// Underlined may be incorrect see next post.
Still unable to confirm but seems that another support probably pilings and not pier is settling.
"Bents" are inherently pilings, aren't they? I've never seen the term used to refer to anything else.
I haven't been able to make a trip out to see the bridge yet, but the reports I've heard are that the new piers UP built (to replace the failed pier) have started to sink as well.
Apparently UP is now bringing back cranes and other equipment to the bridge site to prepare to work on the second round of repairs, but in the meantime they are still running some freight trains over the bridge at a 10 mph speed restriction (So I assume the sinking isn't too bad, yet).
However, both Sunset Limited #1 & #2 have returned to their detour over the BNSF via Alvin to get to Houston and a number of freight trains are detouring as well. Also, today the Ringling, Barnum, & Bailey circus train came through and used the same BNSF detour to avoid the bridge.
-Chris
can we guess that UP is holding its breath that the Brazos will not flood and cause more damage to the bridge with this latest low pressure rains ?
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