Fire at Cincinnati playground raises safety concerns under Daniel Carter Beard Bridge

A fire at the 1,000 Hands Playground under the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge in Cincinnati raised questions about safety. The Federal Highway Administration had warned states about flammable materials under bridges, but it is unclear if the playground was inspected. The fire occurred on November 1, damaging part of the bridge and leading to a state of emergency. No injuries were reported, but the southbound side of the bridge is closed indefinitely for repairs, which could take up to two months. Cincinnati Parks stated the playground was made of composite wood and rubber materials. The Federal Highway Administration's memo did not specifically address playgrounds, but it noted that structures using combustible materials could pose fire hazards under bridges.