Overpass damaged but still safe for travel, officials say

A portion of a Interstate 275 overpass in Pinellas County was damaged Tuesday, but officials say it’s still safe for motorists.

Around 5:30 p.m., a tractor trailer carrying an excavator traveling west on Roosevelt Boulevard when the arm of the excavator struck the I-275 overpass, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

The excavator’s arm extended above the overpass’ 16-foot limit, causing the damage. Some portions of concrete fell onto Roosevelt Boulevard, closing the road for several hours, according to FHP.

Engineers have inspected and deemed the overpass and Roosevelt Boulevard safe for travel. Repairs are expected to be completed in the near future, according to FHP.

The driver of the tractor trailer, a 46-year-old Tampa man, was cited for a load height violation.

This story was originally published October 18, 2017 at 7:09 AM with the headline "Overpass damaged but still safe for travel, officials say."