An expansion joint is a part of the bridge that helps absorb thermal expansion or thermal contraction. Basically, when concrete gets hot, it can expand and when it gets cold, it contracts.

Two northbound lanes of SH-146 on the Fred Hartman Bridge have reopened Thursday after expansion joint damage repairs over the Houston Ship Channel.

It's part of a $6.9 million project to replace the joints on the bridge, which is expected to be completed by April 2026.