Centerville Turnpike Bridge Closure – Update (December 17, 2020)

The Centerville Turnpike Bridge remains closed to vehicular traffic after being struck by a barge the morning of Nov. 14, 2020.

The U.S. Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident with the City’s cooperation.

The bridge sustained structural, mechanical, and electrical damage in the incident, and City staff alongside contractors will place the bridge on jacks on approximately Dec. 23, 2020, to complete the inspection. The full inspection is expected to be complete by Jan. 11, 2021, with full repair plans expected to be ready by Jan. 31, 2021.

The current estimated cost of repairs is $2.86 million. Repairs are currently expected to be complete by May 31, 2021. NOTE: These are current estimates, and this information may change based on potential additional findings or unforeseen delays in the repair process. A request for emergency appropriation of funds will be presented to City Council in January. All costs are being tracked, and the City will pursue cost recovery from parties deemed responsible for the incident.

Motorists should use Rt. 168 Chesapeake Expressway as the primary detour route. More information will be released as it becomes available.