MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Update:
All lanes of Interstate 75 have reopened.
Previous story:
Northbound lanes of I-75 remain closed in Marion County after a tractor-trailer struck and damaged an overpass.
The Florida Highway Patrol said traffic is being diverted at exit 341, which leads to County Road 484, after the tractor-trailer hit the Southwest 66th Street overpass Wednesday morning.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Troopers said there were 8 miles of traffic congestion in the northbound lanes and 4 miles of southbound congestion due to delays caused by onlookers.
They said the overpass is also closed.
The Florida Department of Transportation said one of several beams of the bridge has been damaged beyond repair and will have to be replaced sometime in the future
Read: Orlando State Senator proposes bill to protect customers on windshield replacement
FDOT said it expects to reopen northbound lanes of the interstate Wednesday evening or during the overnight after temporary repairs have been made.
The agency said the Southwest 66th Street overpass will reopen Wednesday evening with people directing traffic using flags.
Drivers are asked to seek alternate routes until further notice.
Marion County Public Schools said its school buses running in south Marion County will likely be rerouted due to the closure.
Watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 4 for live updates.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
0 of 7
Traffic Alert-- Marion County- a tractor trailer travelling north on I-75 with an over dimensioned load has struck and damaged the SW 66 St overpass near the 347 mile marker. Currently all NORTHBOUND lanes are closed. Motorist should seek other routes, until further notice.
— FHP Gainesville (@FHPGainesville) February 22, 2023
©2023 Cox Media Group
