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Both of the Mississippi River bridges have been reopened after loose barges hit the Westbound side on Monday evening.

Traffic had been delayed for at least an hour while the bridge had to be inspected for damages by the Department of Transportation. A more thorough investigation of the damage will take place, but for now they are deemed safe for motorists, officials said.

”I want to thank everyone for their patience as emergency personnel have been at work assessing the situation and making sure that conditions are safe for motorists,” said Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson. “All of this has been due to an incident  that occurred earlier tonight shortly after 8 pm. Some barges came loose from their moorings along the Mississippi River and hit at least two piers on the north bridge.

“All area emergency personnel have been exceptional, and I am very grateful. The bridges will be thoroughly inspected tomorrow as a safety precaution.  More information will soon be forthcoming from Adams County Emergency Management.”