Gilmerton Bridge span opens early

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) - One span of the Gilmerton Bridge re-opened Monday evening, nearly a week ahead of schedule.

Photos: Gilmerton Bridge Replacement Project

The bridge closed in both directions Jan. 7 and was expected to be closed for two weeks so work could be completed on one of the new spans.

During the construction, a new bridge clearance of 35 feet was installed. It reaches 135 feet when the bridge is opened and will be wider to accommodate for the future expansion of Military Highway to six lanes.

The new span will eventually become the eastbound span of the bridge, but for now it will service traffic in both directions.

There will still be closures as work continues on the westbound span, so if you travel this route, you may still experience delays.

The original Gilmerton Bridge (Route 13/Military Highway) was constructed in 1938.

The $134 million bridge replacement project, made up mostly of federal money, is expected to be complete in early 2014.

Despite the Gilmerton Bridge opening early, officials with the Jordan Bridge said they will continue offering a $1 discount through midnight on Jan. 20.

Click here for additional details on the VDOT Gilmerton Bridge Project.