State transportation officials say a partial opening of the Mathews Bridge in the coming days is not off the table.
Florida Department of Transportation spokesman Mike Goldman said work is continuing around the clock to repair the span that was damaged last month after being struck by a ship, with the first stage of repairs is nearly complete.
When finished, it will allow the heavy equipment needed to make permanent repairs.
If possible, there will be two lanes of traffic heading into downtown in the mornings and two lanes heading to Arlington in the afternoon.
Goldman said once the equipment is in place they will determine if the bridge can handle traffic.
"The determining factor is safety," he said.
Goldman also said officials remain hopeful that permanent repairs will be completed in time for the Florida-Georgia college football game on Nov. 2.
