The Nation - News from Jan. 15, 1989

A four-lane bridge, the only direct link between Pensacola and suburban Gulf Breeze, Fla., and used by thousands of commuters daily, was knocked out of operation when a barge slammed into a concrete pillar supporting the center of the 3-mile structure, knocking the pillar into the water. The bridge was clear of traffic at the time and no injuries were reported. It will remain closed to traffic for three weeks. The only other land access is a detour of about 60 miles. Officials said it was not known why the barge was unable to navigate away from the pillar.