Drivers who use the Rt. 223 bridge to cross Milford Haven connecting Gwynn’s Island and mainland Mathews should be aware that there are two overnight closures ahead.
Rt. 223, aka Old Ferry Road, will close at the bridge from 10 p.m. on Sunday, February 26 to 6 a.m. Monday February 27.
On Tuesday, March 7, the road will close from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. Wednesday, March 8.
While the road is closed, emergency services will have personnel and equipment stationed on Gwynn’s Island ready to respond to any incidents that may arise. And VDOT said a plan will be in place to allow passage over the bridge if an emergency warrants it.
These overnight closures have been set to allow crews to replace the center bearing, which is critical in operating the bridge's movable swing span. While crews are doing this work, weight must be minimized on the bridge, VDOT noted.
These closures are part of a $10.7 million maintenance project to improve the bridge's mechanical and electrical elements. VDOT is also making spot structural steel repairs.
This bridge, which was built in 1938, opens 3,000 times a year, more than any other bridge in Virginia. Due to its condition, before this project, opening times for marine traffic have been limited to six times a day. Once completed, the bridge will be able to open on demand.
Follow the Watchful Eye on Twitter so you never miss a story and important updates.
Did You See: SNAP Cuts are Coming in Virginia?
Want to submit tips or story suggestions to the Watchful Eye? Email 4watchfuleye@protonmail.com. Want to support this independent news channel? Do it here. Any and all is greatly appreciated!
Comments / 1