Talking Michigan Transportation Why falling ice leads to closing the Mackinac Bridge
Mar 26, 2026
Matt Chynoweth, former MDOT chief bridge engineer now leading RS&H’s bridge practice, offers national perspective on ice mitigation. Joe Shampine, Mackinac Bridge maintenance supervisor, explains real-world decision-making and risks when heavy ice falls. They discuss why closures happen, why quick fixes fail, mechanical and passive mitigation options, and how other bridges handle similar hazards.
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Maintenance Supervisor Nearly Hit By Falling Ice
- Joe Shampine nearly had ice fall through his truck roof while standing on the bridge during a melting event.
- He describes ice striking his truck roof and denting the box, demonstrating how falling chunks from 50–200+ feet can shatter windshields and cause serious harm.
Opening The Bridge Risks Dislodging More Ice
- Joe Shampine describes the decision challenge: closing the bridge is easy, reopening is hard because traffic vibration can shake more ice loose.
- He recounts opening then re-closing 20 minutes later when traffic vibrations dislodged additional ice.
Frontline Crews Manage Turnarounds And Try Manual Mitigation
- Frontline maintenance staff at the north and south ends manage traffic turnarounds and absorb commuter frustration during closures.
- Joe praises those crews and explains they sometimes use sand trucks and truck vibrations to shake remaining ice off in suitable conditions.