The Department of Transportation is planning to close lanes on the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge throughout the summer to complete emergency repairs on what are being called serious problems.

The Star-News of Wilmington reported Friday that the problems were identified in a recent inspection.

Closures will begin May 27, when work begins on beams that support the deck of the bridge, which carries more than 60,000 cars a day over the Cape Fear River.

From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. every night, the bridge will be completely closed. During rush hour, one lane in each direction will be closed.

The majority of lane closures will occur through Aug. 15. Additional closures will be necessary for several weeks in the fall, with all work scheduled to be complete by Oct. 31.