The Huguenot Memorial Bridge closure that was originally scheduled for March 26 has been postponed until the following Saturday, April 2, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. due to expected inclement weather. During the closure, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will inspect a deteriorated joint on the south end of the bridge and make repairs if needed. The assessment is necessary to maintain the integrity of the 62 year old bridge during the ongoing reconstruction project.

VDOT recommends drivers use the following alternate routes during the closure:

• Northbound Huguenot Road - Chippenham Parkway (Route 150) north over the Willey Bridge to River Road east to Huguenot Road or use Powhite Parkway/Route 76 (toll) east into Richmond

• Southbound Huguenot Road – River Road west to Chippenham Parkway (Route 150) south to Huguenot Road

In addition, a maintenance crew will patch potholes on the bridge during the closure April 2, weather permitting. They will continue the patching on Sunday, April 3 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. using flaggers to alternate one lane of traffic over the bridge. Drivers should expect delays and use an alternate route if possible.

The Huguenot Bridge is a major transportation artery over the James River connecting Richmond city limits to the south and Henrico County to the north via Huguenot Road (Route 147). Approximately 28,000 vehicles cross the bridge each day.

The bridge inspection and pothole patching are part of routine maintenance and are not associated with the current Huguenot Bridge reconstruction project. Construction of the new bridge remains on schedule with completion expected in October 2013. For more information about the Huguenot Bridge project or to sign up for e-mail updates, visit http://www.huguenotbridge.org .