CINCINNATI - Crews for the City of Cincinnati are planning to complete the emergency repair on the Western Hills Viaduct on Monday, Oct. 23, rather than Thursday, Oct. 19, as previously indicated.

The extension to Monday will allow workers to safely access the 10-foot trouble spot Saturday, when the bottom deck is fully closed to through traffic. 

Crews are on schedule to finish prep work already underway. On Saturday, they will install wood forms from the underside of the top deck using a lift to maneuver into place. On Monday, crews will fill the trouble spot with reinforced concrete for a more permanent repair.

Several chunks of concrete broke loose and fell from the top deck onto the bottom deck Monday afternoon. Cincinnati Police closed lanes so crews could temporarily patch the spot with asphalt. No injuries or property damage were reported.

The combination of road salt and normal wear and tear from traffic likely prompted the concrete to crack and eventually break loose. 

Also Saturday, crews will conduct previously scheduled maintenance and inspections.

Through traffic heading east and west on the viaduct will be allowed via the top deck. 

In addition, the ramp at exit 2B from southbound Interstate 75 to the viaduct will close to accommodate equipment and crews. Motorists may use the Western Avenue exit off I-75 south to detour.

Detour signage also will be posted on site to help guide motorists.

Motorists are encouraged to use caution when approaching the area.

Please note: The city closes portions of the viaduct to perform routine maintenance and inspections several times a year. In addition, the Ohio Department of Transportation performs maintenance on the I-75 ramps that connect to the viaduct.

Read more about the viaduct and the plan to replace it.