Severe Erosion Causes Aiken Bridge to Sink 1 Foot

AIKEN, S.C. (AP) _ South Carolina Department of Transportation crews are rushing to shore up a bridge in Aiken that is quickly sinking. Authorities say severe erosion under the Laurens Street bridge has caused it to settle nearly a foot in the past several days. The bridge has been closed to vehicles and pedestrians. A motorist first noticed the problem after heavy rains this past weekend, and officials say more rain on Monday and Tuesday caused the pilings holding up the bridge to sink further. DOT crews are rushing to stabilize the bridge and keep it from collapsing on the rail line below before more rain can cause more erosion. The state is also seeking emergency money to replace the span as soon as possible.