Under Construction: 21st Street North over I-66 Bridge Rehabilitation in Arlington County

Please note: Construction began in July 2023.

Work is underway on the 21st St N bridge over I-66 just east of Spout Run Pkwy in #Arlington! The bridge rehabilitation project, which includes resurfacing the concrete deck and repairing piers, is scheduled for completion in late 2024.

Read more here: https://t.co/YI7edw43XU pic.twitter.com/9XcQRvcZSN

— VDOT Northern VA (@VaDOTNOVA) July 28, 2023

This project is rehabilitating the 21st Street North bridge over I-66 located between the Spout Run Parkway (Exit 72) and eastbound I-66 Route 29 Rosslyn/Key Bridge (Exit 73) interchanges.  The bridge was built in 1980.

The project includes:

• Resurfacing the concrete bridge deck
• Closing deck joints
• Repairing concrete piers and abutments
• Replacing bearings

The width of the existing lanes and sidewalks on the bridge will remain the same.

During construction:

• Daytime lane closures may be scheduled along I-66 and 21^st Street North
• Overnight lane closures may be scheduled on I-66
• When one sidewalk along the bridge is closed, pedestrians will be detoured to the sidewalk on the opposite side
• The Custis Trail under the bridge will remain open to bicyclists and pedestrians
• Parking will not be allowed on the bridge or approaches

Starting in mid-2024, 21st Street North will be temporarily reduced to one lane on the bridge and open to northbound traffic only. Further information will be provided closer to the start of the partial bridge closure, which will be in place for several months while work occurs on the bridge deck.

Estimated Costs
Preliminary Engineering - $755,000
Construction - $3.3 million
Total - $4.1 million

This project is financed with federal and state funding, including State of Good Repair funds used for bridges.

Benefits 

This project will improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and extend the overall life of the bridge.

Major Milestones 

Virtual Public Information Meeting - June 2022
Advertise for Construction - March 2023
Award Construction Contract - May 2023
Begin Construction - July 2023
Begin 21st Street Southbound Traffic Temporary Closure and Detour - Mid-2024
Final Completion - Late 2024