Boston City Council calls for citywide inspection of bridges after fallen light pole hits woman
The Boston City Council calls for a citywide inspection of bridges and light poles after a fallen pole struck a woman on Moakley Bridge Tuesday afternoon.
The woman, in her 30s, was struck at about 3 p.m. on the Evelyn Moakley Bridge, which connects Atlantic Avenue and Sleeper Street. According to the Boston Police Department, the woman’s injuries were considered to be non-life threatening.
This emergency inspection resulted in the removal of 23 light poles of the same age.
“The City of Boston prioritizes the safety of its residents and visitors, and out of an abundance of caution, the sidewalks and bike path have been closed and vehicular traffic has been reduced to one lane in each direction until Boston Public Works crews can evaluate all street poles for safety,” a city worker said on Wednesday.
Temporary lighting will be installed on the Moakley Bridge to ensure adequate lighting levels until a permanent replacement can be installed, according to Flynn.
“In addition, Public Works conveyed that they are working closely with their bridge engineers and design consultants to ensure that the replacements can withstand the elements of salt water and sea air which led to this incident,” said Flynn.
Additionally, Flynn said that he is requesting a full audit of the bridges and light poles to ensure that ensure they are held to high safety standards.
“Moreover, due to the corrosion and deterioration caused by salt water and sea air, it would be appropriate to place an emphasis on all light poles located on bridges, as well as prioritizing those in close proximity to the ocean.”
Please find my statement re yesterday’s incident @ South Boston Waterfront, Moakley Bridge. We pray the victim makes full recovery. I continue to stay in close contact w/ @BostonPWD. Calling for citywide inspection of bridges & light poles in interest of public safety. #bospoli pic.twitter.com/rCPuAeXldH
— Ed Flynn 愛德華費連 (@EdforBoston) September 28, 2022
Boston 25 received a report from MassDOT on Thursday morning that included photos of several light poles on the Seaport bridge which showed signs of rust almost eight months ago.
The photos from the inspection report were submitted back in January and were called for immediate repairs.
Seaport Light Falls Massdot Inspection Report 1-22 by Boston 25 Desk on Scribd
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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