Moores Mill Road bridge remains closed after partial collapse in Atlanta

The Moores Mill Road bridge over Peachtree Creek in Northwest Atlanta remains closed following a partial collapse of an outer support wall, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. The incident also caused a nearby water line to rupture, prompting the Atlanta Department of Transportation to place barricades on both sides of the bridge.

Initial reports suggested a heavy vehicle struck the bridge, causing the collapse, but city officials and engineers are now investigating whether the cause was related to aged infrastructure and soil erosion rather than a vehicle impact, FOX 5 Atlanta reported. The bridge, built in 1924, has experienced wear from weather and water flow over its 102 years.

The closure has caused delays for drivers who regularly use the route, with some reporting commutes extended by 15 minutes, Atlanta News First reported. The Atlanta Department of Transportation and Department of Watershed Management are assessing the damage and exploring temporary fixes to reopen the bridge.

Local officials, including Councilman Dustin Hillis, noted that prior inspections found the bridge structurally sound despite its age. Hillis expressed intentions to evaluate this and other bridges for potential replacement after repairs are completed, Atlanta News First reported.

Residents and drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and follow posted detour signs while the city continues its evaluation and repair work on the bridge.

The city is focusing on the washout near the bridge as the primary cause of the collapse and will share any new information regarding vehicle involvement if it arises, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.