Unsafe bridge causes Hawkins County FD squad to find other routes

Response times for a Hawkins County volunteer fire department will increase due to members deciding not to use a bridge in their route. The Goshen Valley Volunteer Fire Department has decided to no longer use the Goshen Valley Road bridge, crossing the Holston River. The bridge is county owned, just south of 11W. An assessment of the bridge by TDOT indicates the structure is in severe disrepair and qualifies for replacement. School bus routes could change for those using the bridge. The Goshen Valley Volunteer Fire Department is asking TDOT to install warning flashing signs on 11W and from I-81 at Baileyton, warning motorists of the weight limit, and to install signs at least a quarter mile from both approaches to the bridge.