Gubernatorial candidates agree Sherman Minton closing is a big problem

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LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - Commuters over the Ohio River continue sitting in long lines of traffic to get from one state to the other. The problems with the traffic mess and the Sherman Minton Bridge closure remains a hot topic, and 34 days later the candidates for governor have plenty to say about it. All three agreed with drivers, that it's a problem.

"The Louisville bridges are a tremendous problem," said Sen. President David Williams, who is running for governor as the republican nominee.

The three candidates to be Kentucky's next governor talked about it during an Oct. 11 debate by the Kentucky Broadcasters Association held at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond.

"It's time we tried something new folks," said Gatewood Galbraith, running as an independent. "The old way ain't working."

Williams also spoke about it.

"This project ought to be the number one transportation priority of any governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and we can only do that with innovative thinking, thinking outside the box, not dragging your feet," said Williams.

Beshear said he has been working closely with Indiana's Gov. Mitch Daniels.

"The crisis with the Sherman Minton Bridge, and it is a crisis because 70-80 thousand cars a day have been going across that bridge until the governor felt like we had to close it because of safety reasons," said Beshear.

Kentucky's current governor promising it will get fixed and reopen.

"Hopefully in the next four to six months we will see that happen, and we'll find the money somewhere to get it done," said Beshear. "I can guarantee you that because we owe it to the people in that area."

Until then, drivers will be stuck waiting.

"I think this is an eye opener that we need another bridge or two," said Sellersburg resident Carolyn Nunn. "I'll be glad when the other bridge is open, yes."

A spokesperson for the Indiana Department of Transportation says they are opening up the bidding process for construction companies to fix it on Oct. 18.