ALLENTOWN, PA – A propane truck attempting to cross a wooden bridge in Allentown met a disastrous fate early Tuesday afternoon when the structure gave way, sending part of the bridge and the vehicle into the Little Lehigh Creek. The truck, owned by Sharp Energy, was significantly over the bridge’s five-ton weight limit, weighing in at two to three times that amount, according to local authorities.
Residents nearby, familiar with the bridge’s fragility, expressed their concerns. “We don’t drive our cars over it. We just walk over it,” one local said, highlighting the community’s awareness of the bridge’s limitations. Despite the bridge’s posted weight restrictions, the truck ventured onto its deck, leading to the collapse between the entrance and the first pier.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, with fire trucks and tow trucks setting up roadblocks. The precarious situation left the truck dangling from the bridge by its front tires, while the rear section hung over the creek, having crushed part of the structure.
The driver of the truck was rescued without injury, and fortunately, no propane leaked from the vehicle. However, the removal of the truck caused temporary power outages for nearby homes. Sharp Energy stated they are fully aware of the incident and are collaborating with local officials to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
The incident has put the bridge out of commission, thrusting it into full repair mode. The loss of this crossing is expected to impact both the residents and the local conservancy group, which relies on the bridge for access.
For now, the community must adapt to the disruption, as officials assess the damage and plan for repairs. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to posted weight limits and the potential consequences of ignoring them.