Irasburg bridge destroyed by propane tanker fire reopens

IRASBURG — Bridge 129 over the Black River on Route 14 has reopened following an emergency replacement project prompted by a propane tanker fire.

The bridge had been closed for five months after the crash on December 4, 2023, involving a tanker operated by Northern Gas Transport.

The crash resulted in a fire that burned for more than a day, compromising the bridge and necessitating the evacuation of residents within a one-mile radius.

The 136-foot steel bridge was reconstructed with $1.2 million in federal quick-release emergency relief funds. The Vermont Agency of Transportation expedited the project to restore this critical north-south route.

During the closure, traffic between Irasburg and Coventry was detoured via VT 58 and US 5, adding approximately four miles to the commute.

The bridge reopened at 6:30 p.m yesterday. The reopening of the bridge restores normal travel for local residents and commuters, ensuring efficient transportation in the area.