ODOT: Boardman's Walker Mill Bridge expected to reopen in early July

BOARDMAN TWP., Ohio - The Walker Mill Road bridge over Interstate 680 in Boardman is expected to reopen in early July when repairs are completed, according to the latest assessment by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
The span has been closed since March when it was struck by a garbage truck passing underneath along the interstate.
ODOT Public Information Officer Ray Marsch said engineers assessed the damage and determined the necessary repairs, which continue.
"We decided that it was in the best interest of public safety to close the overhead bridge," said ODOT Project Engineer Connor Sperati. "We didn't deem it necessarily safe enough for traffic to pass over while crews worked underneath."
Project Foreman Sam Williams described the incident as a "severe hit,” adding that Initial steps involved installing temporary supports to stabilize the structure. Crews are now performing heat straightening, a process involving heating, cooling, and some pushing and pulling to mend the damaged sections.
"Everything is one step at a time," Williams said. "Do one heat. Let it cool down. Come off. Reassess."
The driver of the Ohio Waste Management truck, Daniel Rios of Youngstown, is charged with operating a wide load without a permit. According to court records, Rios is scheduled to enter a plea in the case on July 24.