HOUSTON – A 60-year-old Houston bridge suffered its second collision in three days when a truck crashed into it Saturday night, marking the structure’s 68th recorded strike and prompting hazardous materials cleanup.
The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. at the Houston Avenue Bridge spanning Interstate 10, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Multiple lanes were blocked as hazmat crews responded to the scene.
This latest collision comes just days after a similar crash Thursday at the same location.
Permit Violations Identified as Key Issue
TxDOT officials attribute the recurring crashes to commercial vehicles either operating without required permits or deliberately ignoring approved travel routes. These permits are designed to direct oversized loads away from low-clearance bridges.
The department has implemented multiple safety measures along the corridor, including:
- Three oversized load detection systems in both eastbound and westbound directions
- Flashing warning signs that activate when oversized vehicles are detected
- Multiple advance warning signs along I-10
Long-Term Solution Planned
To permanently address the safety concern, TxDOT plans to demolish and reconstruct the Houston Avenue bridge. The new design will route Houston Avenue beneath I-10, eliminating the clearance issue entirely.
Construction timeline:
- Demolition scheduled to begin in early 2027
- Project completion expected by mid-2028
Of the 68 recorded strikes to the bridge, seven have resulted in police investigations, TxDOT monitoring systems show.