Public encouraged to picnic this Sunday on Huguenot Bridge
This Saturday, VDOT will divert traffic from the existing 62-year-old Huguenot Memorial Bridge to the first half of the new, replacement bridge. On Sunday, from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, the bridge will be open to pedestrians for walking, cycling, or even picnicking. People will access a closed-off portion of Huguenot Bridge via a closed […]
This Saturday, VDOT will divert traffic from the existing 62-year-old Huguenot Memorial Bridge to the first half of the new, replacement bridge. On Sunday, from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, the bridge will be open to pedestrians for walking, cycling, or even picnicking.
People will access a closed-off portion of Huguenot Bridge via a closed ramp from Riverside Drive on the south end of the bridge. Drivers should take Old Spring Road and turn right on Southampton Road to reach Riverside Drive. Ice chests and folding chairs are permitted, but alcohol is not. Parking will be available along Riverside Drive.
“It’s not easy to say goodbye to something that has been a critical part of the Richmond community since 1950,” said Ray Johnston, project manager at the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). “We’re hoping people will take advantage of this occasion to enjoy a leisurely day on the old bridge before its gone forever.”
Efforts to replace the old bridge began in October 2010. VDOT expects the second half of the new bridge to open in summer 2013. When finished, the new bridge will have one 12-foot-wide travel lane and one 10-foot-wide shoulder in each direction. The wider shoulder will provide motorists with a breakdown lane and a lane for cyclists. The bridge will also sport a 5-foot wide sidewalk on each side of the bridge for pedestrians.
The Huguenot Bridge spans the James River and connects Richmond to Henrico County. Approximately 25,000 vehicles cross the bridge each day.
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Nathan Cushing
Nathan Cushing is a writer, journalist, and RVANews Editor.
Notice: Comments that are not conducive to an interesting and thoughtful conversation may be removed at the editor’s discretion.
I’ve seen that good old bridge ever since I was 13-14 years old. It’s hard to say good bye to it. I wish I was in Richmond to go onto the old bridge.