Old Chester Bridge demolition scheduled for Sept. 28

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

PERRY COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — The old Chester Bridge is scheduled to be demolished Monday, Sept. 28, prompting officials to warn spectators about viewing restrictions, road access and a temporary closure of the Mississippi River.

The demolition is scheduled for 9 a.m., according to the Perry County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials are encouraging people who want to watch the demolition to view it from the Chester, Illinois, side of the Mississippi River.

The sheriff’s office said the levee on the Missouri side is not wide enough to safely accommodate parked vehicles while maintaining two-way traffic. Parking on the levee is prohibited when vehicles block traffic or prevent other vehicles from safely passing.

Officials are also asking spectators to keep Perry County roads and the levee clear for farmers who are using the routes to move tractors and other equipment during harvest season.

Many potential viewing locations on the Missouri side are on private property. Spectators should not park or gather on private property without the owner’s permission.

A 1,000-foot blast radius will be established around the bridge during the demolition. Anyone inside the restricted area will be required to leave.

The Mississippi River will also close to boat traffic beginning early Monday morning and remain closed for 48 hours after the demolition. The U.S. Coast Guard will enforce the river closure.

Officials are asking spectators to plan ahead, respect private property and choose a safe location to watch the demolition.