The Fourth Street Bridge will officially be taken down via a controlled explosion on Monday. Here’s how you can view the demolition and what you need to know leading up to the blast.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 6 said blasting operations are expected to begin at 9 a.m. as local authorities begin a full pedestrian sweep within a 1,000-foot perimeter called the “secure zone.” The blast is expected to take place at 10:01 a.m.
Only authorized personnel will be allowed outside within the secure zone in the half-hour leading up to the blast. The transportation cabinet is coordinating with law enforcement in Covington and Newport to ensure nobody is outside within the secure area at the time of the blast.
Homeowners who live within the secure zone will be allowed to remain inside their homes during the blasting operation.
Demolition day timeline:
9:16 a.m.: First responders begin initial pedestrian sweep of the secure area.
9:42 a.m.: Streets within the secure area are closed to vehicles. Shelter-in-place is issued for anyone inside the secure area.
9:55 a.m.: Five-minute warning. Three long audible warning signals are sounded
10:00 a.m.: Two siren blasts signal a one-minute warning.
10:01 a.m.: Final countdown and detonation
Post-Detonation: Blasting technicians will inspect the area. One siren blast will signal that the “all clear” has been given. Streets will reopen, and shelter-in-place will be lifted.
See that red circle? You won’t be allowed to be outdoors within the 1,000-foot secure area for an hour leading up to the blast.
In Newport, Riverboat Row and Ovation Way will be closed. Riverside Drive in Covington does not have a view of the bridge.
Your best bet? In Cincinnati.
- Heritage Bank Center: good sightlines and elevation
- Cincinnati boat landing southwest of the serpentine wall
- Sidewalk on the west portion of the Taylor Southgate Bridge between Newport and Cincinnati.
Can’t make it? Don’t worry. The transportation cabinet plans to host a Facebook Live stream in the minutes leading up to the blast at 10:01 a.m. on Monday, March 2. For more information, check out the project website.