UPDATE: 10:30 a.m. -- The Elmira Police Department confirmed that the bridge will remain closed until it can be inspected by officials with the New York Department of Transportation and Norfolk Southern. 

ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- During a routine patrol, Elmira Police Officers encountered smoke coming from beneath a bridge on West Washington Ave, between Magee St and Hatch St around 4:45 a.m.  

While investigating, officers came across a fire burning under the bridge. The Elmira Fire Department soon after responded to the fire and were able to bring the blaze under control.  

"I mean certainly until we know what caused the fire," says Elmira City Manager Michael Collins. "I think that just closing the bridge, making sure that people aren't on the bridge, is a safety precaution currently. So, at this stage of the game, let's just wait until the experts come in and give a final determination."

As a result of the fire, the bridge will remain closed until further notice, and the New York State Department of Transportation will help the county in the investigation. Norfolk Southern referred WENY News to local officials for information.

EPD is urging anyone with additional information related to the incident to contact their office at (607)-737-5626 or leave an anonymous tip at (607)-271-HALT.

Alternate routes are available for commuters and can be found here.