Smithland Bridge project wins award for innovative techniques

Livingston County's new US 60 bridge over the Cumberland River in Smithland has won a regional transportation award for its innovative construction and implementation.

The project completed in 2023 was chosen for America's Transportation Awards "Best Use of IT and Innovation" while competing against other departments of transportation throughout the Midwest.

The innovative approach to building the bridge saw the 700-foot truss constructed at the Paducah Riverport, then floated to the site on barges and raised into place. 

KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said, "This bridge is not just a steel connection; it's the community's heartbeat, enabling economic growth, social opportunities, emergency response and vital agricultural activities. I'm proud of the ingenuity and coordination undertaken by our team and contracted partners to deliver an iconic bridge that meets the needs of travelers for decades to come and makes the community proud."

The awards are sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and AAA. After the regional competition, twelve projects are selected to battle for a grand prize chosen by industry leaders. There will be a People's Choice award handed out, as well.

The Lucy Jefferson Lewis Memorial Bridge stood for 92 years. The old bridge was named for the younger sister of Thomas Jefferson. After marrying Charles Lewis, a relative of Meriwether Lewis, in 1769, the two settled in Livingston County sometime around 1806. 

The new bridge opened to traffic on May 15th, 2023. The new bridge is named in honor of Jim R. Smith, a Livingston County native, whose company, now run by his son Rex, was the lead contractor on the construction project.