News

Actions

I-95 bridge work could cause more traffic delays

Posted at 6:29 PM, Feb 17, 2013
and last updated 2013-02-17 22:32:32-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) --  VDOT says the Interstate 95 Bridge Replacement Project is halfway completed and on budget.

However, with one of the biggest portions of the project slated to begin soon, some drivers are worried about potential delays.

VDOT officials called the Lombardy Street Bridge their "monster on this project" as it stretches over Lombardy Street between Boulevard and Belvidere.

Project managers said of the all the bridges getting replaced on I-95 through downtown, Lombardy is the biggest and most complex.

Crews have been revamping 11 bridges on I-95 through Richmond since 2010, and the traffic delays associated with the project has given some drivers headaches.

"Drivers are frustrated enough, but it's even going to be more frustration," said Stephen Shipek, who lives in Richmond.

The Lombardy Street replacement is scheduled to begin in the spring.  Construction plans call to widen the bridge by adding a shoulder.

Those anticipated lane closures have some drivers nervous about their morning commute.

"Slows down my commute.  I'm almost 15 minutes late for work everyday," said Jerome Brown, who drives on I-95 daily.  "I can't afford no more write ups at work."

However, VDOT said lanes will only be shut down at times when traffic is minimal.

The four-year project is expected to cost around $68 million and be completed by 2014.