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VDOT trims tall grass near bridge after woman calls CBS 6 Problem Solvers

Posted at 7:06 PM, Aug 25, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-25 19:06:33-04

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- A woman contacted the CBS 6 Problem Solvers worried about tall grass near the Willey Bridge in Henrico County.

She's concerned for her safety because the grass was left to "go wild" just before the bridge near River and Parham roads.

WTVR CBS 6 crews spotted that section of the median with grass nearly four feet tall Thursday morning.

Tall grass near Willey Bridge.

Tall grass near Willey Bridge.

CBS 6 reporter Sandra Jones reached out to the Virginia Department of Transportation about the situation.

"It's a safety concern when it's a sight distance concern," Jessica Cowardin, a spokesperson for VDOT, said. "So if folks notice that or have trouble seeing, it's definitely something we want to go out there and take care of. Safety is our number one priority."

Cowardin said the agency is responsible for maintaining 18,000 lane miles in the Richmond metro area.

As a result, she said crews cut grass and remove litter in the medians four times during the summer months.

When asked if she thought that was enough,  Cowardin said it depends on a number or factors including safety concerns and weather patterns.

While reporting on the story Thursday, VDOT crews showed up trim the grass.

"We would've gotten to it in the next week, but thank you for your call. We're going to be out there taking care of this today," Cowardin said.

Reporter Sandra Jones and VDOT spokesperson Jessica Cowardin.

Reporter Sandra Jones and VDOT spokesperson Jessica Cowardin.

VDOT wants drivers to be vigilante because crews are busy with more than just cutting grass and removing litter.

They are repairing guardrails, cleaning drains and cutting trees along the highways.

"Whenever we receive any concerns, whether it be safety or a site distance issue, we can address those immediately," Cowardin said.

If you spot a problem on area highways or interstates, call VDOT at 1-800-467-7623.

CBS 6 News is working for you. Click here to email a tip to the CBS 6 Problem Solvers. Be sure to leave us your name, phone number and detailed description of the problem. You can also leave a message by calling 804-254-3672.