Safety concerns have prompted the Virginia Department of Transportation to close a major swing bridge over the Chickahominy River. State engineers had been monitoring the bridge closely following a shift in its alignment caused by deterioration of one of the piers of the 29 span structure. Reducing the weight limit on the bridge failed to stem the movement and the fixed and opening spans are now out of alignment by 165mm.
Divers will inspect the bridge today to assist with the preparation of repair plans and a contractor is set to start remedial work on 6 July. Meanwhile, drivers face a 100km detour.
The 617m bridge is commonly known as the Barretts Ferry Bridge but was officially named the Judith Stewart Dresser Memorial Bridge in 2003. The swing-span truss bridge was originally constructed in 1939 and carries one lane of traffic each direction. It has timber supports and a concrete and steel driving deck.
For more than 31 years, Bridge Design & Engineering has been a trusted source of new insights, knowledge, and connections for the global bridge community. With the rapid shifts in the publishing landscape and increasing costs, sustaining the printed magazine at the high level of quality our readers expect has become increasingly challenging. After careful consideration, Hemming Group Ltd has made the difficult decision to discontinue the print publication.
You will continue to have full access to the Bridge Design and Engineering website - including the complete archive. Although the site will no longer be updated, the archive remains a rich resource of engineering knowledge and project insight. You can also continue to access the Bridge Directory, IBIG, through the website or directly at: https://www.bdeibig.com/
While this marks the end of an era, it also opens a new chapter, one focused on strengthening the connections, collaboration, and technical excellence that our community thrives on. Our energy and investment will now be directed toward expanding and enhancing our industry leading events that bring the bridge community together.
Our flagship events Bridges and Bridges Scotland will continue to thrive as essential annual gatherings for bridge owners, managers, designers, engineers, and suppliers. These events play a vital role in sharing innovation, showcasing best practice and emerging technologies, and fostering meaningful collaboration across the industry. We are excited to build on their success and will further develop these events in the years ahead.
For more information, please email enquiry.bridge@hgluk.com
