CHARLES CITY/JAMES CITY – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) expects to install the remaining beams for the new Judith Stewart Dresser Memorial Bridge (Route 5) over the Chickahominy River by July 28. As a result, boaters with vessels taller than 52 feet will be restricted from passing under the bridge.

The U.S. Coast Guard recommended VDOT design the new, fixed-span bridge to be 52 feet above the river during mean high tide in order to accommodate the majority of vessels that navigate the Chickahominy River. The fixed-span design allows boaters to travel under the bridge without the need for a bridge opening. In addition, motorists will enjoy an uninterrupted drive across the river. The existing 69-year-old bridge functions as a swing-span, meaning it pivots on its axis to allow boats to pass through its opening rather than lifting upward like a drawbridge.

Boaters will continue to access the channel via the existing bridge by notifying the bridge tender via marine radio channel 13. Once two-way traffic is shifted over to the new bridge in late 2008, the existing bridge will be demolished.

The $44 million project ($33.6 million for construction) to replace the existing bridge is currently seven months ahead of schedule and under budget. Final project completion is anticipated by July 2010.

More information about the Route 5 bridge construction project.

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Page last modified: July 18, 2008