News

Actions

Folks worried about South Richmond road because of falling concrete

Posted at 6:22 PM, Jun 12, 2012
and last updated 2012-06-12 18:23:18-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - A railroad bridge in South Richmond appears to be crumbling. Bikers, walkers and drivers in the Riverside Drive area are taking notice.

The old ACL bridge, which runs above Riverside Drive not far from New Kent Road in Westover Hills, is owned by CSX.

Heather Quick, a nanny, said she is worried because she often walks with children under the bridge and spotted an obvious chunk of missing concrete.

“I don’t think there’s been a big moment when a bunch has fallen, I think it’s over time,” added Quick.

However, Quick said she is even more worried because trains still use the bridge daily.

“If something were to happen with the trains... I think someone should come out and look out for the safety of the railroad and the citizens, too,” she said.

Biker Mark Wood said he first noticed the failing concrete for a few year ago.

“I noticed places crumbling, and I actually took photos, partly because I thought it looked interesting, and because it was dangerous, too,” said Wood.

Additionally, he said he emailed the photos to Richmond City Council members.

CBS 6 News' Shelby Brown contacted Kathy Graziano, who represents that district, but she said that was the first she’s heard of the issues with the bridge.

Graziano said that CSX owns the bridge and is responsible for the upkeep.

A CSX spokesperson said by federal law their engineers are responsible for inspecting the bridge yearly. The company plans to send out an inspection team within 24 hours.

Stay with CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for continuing coverage of this story.