New Deep Creek Bridge Set to Open in January, Replacing Old Span

The first of two new bridges over the Dismal Swamp Canal in Chesapeake is expected to open in late January 2024. This milestone marks significant progress in the Deep Creek Bridge replacement project, which is currently less than half-completed after 18 months of construction. The new dual spans will replace a 20-foot-wide, two-lane bridge that has been in service since 1934 and is now considered functionally obsolete.

The old bridge, which carries approximately 30,000 vehicles daily along U.S. 17 Business towards Elizabeth City, is unable to meet the growing demands of local traffic. Phillip Abbott, resident engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Norfolk District, emphasized the challenges posed by the old structure, stating that large emergency vehicles often face delays waiting for both lanes to clear. “I kind of joke we’re going from the Model T to the F-150,” Abbott remarked, highlighting the advancements the new bridge will bring.

Construction Progress and Future Plans

Currently, work is underway on the south leaf of the new bridge, which will serve as a two-lane span for eastbound traffic. Following its opening, the demolition of the old bridge will commence, paving the way for the construction of a three-lane span designated for westbound traffic. The overall cost of the project is approximately $60 million. Recent asphalt placement on the western side of the bridge is a crucial step in facilitating the upcoming traffic shift to the new span.

As construction continues, Abbott noted that weather conditions will play a critical role in determining the timeline for the new bridge’s completion. On a chilly Thursday afternoon, workers were observed making progress at various locations around the site, including a lift beneath the new span, which is painted in a dark green hue.

Inside the newly constructed bridge tender’s house, advanced technology is on display. A large control panel equipped with a digital screen and various switches manages the lift operations of the bridge. Below this control room, additional rooms contain the hydraulic and electrical systems essential for the bridge’s functionality.

Groundwork for the Deep Creek Bridge replacement began in 1977, but funding and planning challenges delayed the project for nearly half a century. City council member Les Smith expressed gratitude for the progress made, urging residents to remain patient. “The bridge has been an ongoing problem for years,” Smith noted, “but we’ve got to look at it from an optimistic standpoint of ‘Now it’s happening.’”

Future Ownership and Infrastructure Management

Upon completion, the federal government plans to transfer ownership of the Deep Creek Bridge to the city of Chesapeake after final inspections are conducted. Alisa Rigano, a spokesperson for the Corps of Engineers, indicated that this aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce the number of bridges in federal inventory. A similar transfer occurred when the current iteration of the Great Bridge Bridge opened in 2004.

Chesapeake is home to 111 bridges and culverts that adhere to National Bridge Inspection Standards. The city manages several key structures, including the Gilmerton Bridge and Centerville Turnpike Bridge, while the Virginia Department of Transportation oversees all interstate bridges in the area. The privately-owned Jordan Bridge is toll-based, while the Deep Creek Bridge will remain toll-free for users.

Allison Harper, a city spokesperson, confirmed that Chesapeake is collaborating closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during construction to ensure a seamless transition of operations from federal management to local oversight. The Corps will continue to manage the Deep Creek Locks, facilitating vessel passage immediately before or after crossing the bridge.

As the community anticipates the opening of the new Deep Creek Bridge, the project stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to improving infrastructure and addressing the needs of its growing population.