Bridge Strike Creates U.S. 64 Detour in Rutherfordton

Annie Dance
Sep 30
2 min read

Underside of bridge struck by over-height cargo early Monday morning

The U.S. 64 bridge over U.S. 221 is closed after a tractor-trailer hauling an over-height cargo container struck the structure early Monday morning, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation.

Inspectors determined part of the bridge’s girder was dislodged, making it unsafe for traffic. NCDOT crews shut down the span immediately.

Detours in Place

Drivers traveling U.S. 64 in both directions are being rerouted around the bridge.

Westbound traffic: U.S. 221 North → Thompson Road → back to U.S. 64
Eastbound traffic: U.S. 221 South → U.S. 221A East (Charlotte Road) → Railroad Avenue → back to U.S. 64

Travelers on U.S. 221 can pass under the bridge, which began Monday evening.

Repair Timeline

NCDOT says repairs are expected to take about two months. Lane closures on U.S. 221 will be needed for construction, with announcements to come as work progresses.

Town and Law Enforcement Response

Town officials acknowledged the frustration caused by the closure, noting the importance of the U.S. 221 Bypass project now under construction.

“There is a designated truck route in place, and we’ve seen the comments about enforcement,” the town said in a statement. “The Rutherfordton Police Department, N.C. Highway Patrol, and N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles are actively policing this area. While our officers are committed to keeping traffic safe, we cannot provide 24/7 coverage at every entry point.”

Officials asked for patience from residents and visitors as repairs move forward and enforcement continues to manage traffic flow.