Drivers who rely on the Cannelton crossing should plan extra time this week. Beginning Tuesday, Oct 7, the Indiana Department of Transportation will begin routine inspections on the State Road 237 bridge over the Ohio River, with alternating lane closures expected for about three days, weather permitting. Crews will manage one lane of traffic during work periods and ask drivers to slow down and avoid distractions in the work zone. The bridge, known as the Bob Cummings Lincoln Trail Bridge, links Cannelton to Hawesville and is the most direct way for Perry residents to reach jobs and services in Hancock County.

When one lane is closed, traffic queues can build quickly on the approaches, especially during the morning commute, school bus runs, and afternoon shift changes. If storms arrive, inspections can extend beyond the three day estimate Local outlets first posted the advisory on Sep 26 and noted the Oct 7 start. A regional radio update echoed the same timing.

The goal is standard safety work that keeps the river span in good condition. There is no announced detour because the bridge remains open, but drivers should budget a few extra minutes and consider adjusting travel to off peak hours when possible. What we do not know: INDOT has not publicly specified daily work hours, the exact method of lane control, or whether crews will pause during overnight periods if weather is favorable.

We will update this story if those details are released. For residents who have dealt with earlier SR 66 disruptions, this is a shorter, planned window rather than a weather forced closure.

Still, patience helps. Slower speeds protect crews and reduce the risk of secondary crashes on the bridge deck.