News Release

Big South Fork Announces Temporary Closure of Blue Heron Tipple Bridge

You are viewing ARCHIVED content

This content was published online before January 20, 2025. Please note that this content is NOT UPDATED, and links may not work. For current information, visit https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/index.htm.

369842477_678115997685956_6728921517707685549_n
Blue Heron Tipple and Bridge

NPS

News Release Date: October 19, 2023
Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

Big South Fork NRRA has announced the temporary closure of the historic Blue Heron Tipple Bridge, effective immediately in the interest of visitor safety. A recent bridge safety inspection conducted by the Federal Highway Administration identified structural issues specific to the pier’s bridge decking which is now leaning beyond acceptable standards.

Federal Highway Administration and National Park Service staff are currently developing a plan for repairs and stabilization. Once repairs are completed, the bridge will be re-evaluated and reopened.

The Blue Heron Tipple was technological marvel in its initial operation in the late 1930s, with its ability to screen, separate and load over 400 tons of coal an hour. For more information about the tipple bridge, use the following link: The Tipple - Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) 

RSS Feed | What is RSS?

Last updated: October 19, 2023

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

4564 Leatherwood Road
Oneida, TN 37841

Phone:

423 569-9778

Contact Us