RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Dawn Eischen (804) 524-6179 Dawn.Eischen@vdot.virginia.gov Media hotline (804) 586-4455

RICH-0804 Jan. 24, 2008

VDOT Lifts Weight Restriction for the Varina-Enon Bridge
Repairs complete

CHESTERFIELD/HENRICO COUNTIES—The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) removed the weight restriction for the I-295 south side of the Varina-Enon Bridge today. Except for some minor touch ups, contractors have completed the repairs and have re-inspected the structure.

During a routine bridge inspection last spring, VDOT found corrosion in one of six tendons located inside the bridge along the southbound approach span. As a precaution, specially permitted loads over 57 tons (115,000 lbs.) were restricted from driving over the bridge at I-295 south until repairs and further inspections were completed. The weight restriction only affected trucks carrying overweight loads, which are required to have a permit from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

VDOT inspects all bridges at least every two years and more frequently if deemed necessary. The 18-year old, cable-stayed bridge spans the James River and connects Chesterfield and Henrico counties. The southbound side carries approximately 17,000 vehicles per day.

For more information about VDOT’s bridge-inspection program, visit VirginiaDOT.org/bridges.

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