VDOT Begins Bridge Replacement Project in Caroline County

News Summary

The Virginia Department of Transportation is set to begin a major construction project to replace the bridge on State Route 207 over the Mattaponi River in Caroline County. Estimated at $9.6 million, the project will involve significant structural upgrades and repairs, leading to the closure of the northbound bridge for nine months. Traffic will be redirected, and speed limits will be adjusted to ensure safety. The project reflects ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in the area and accommodate the daily commuters relying on this route.

Caroline County, Virginia – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will begin a significant construction project next week to replace the bridge on State Route 207 (Rogers Clark Boulevard) over the Mattaponi River in Caroline County. The total cost of the project is estimated at $9.6 million and is set to start on Monday, July 21, 2025.

The construction will involve replacing the superstructure of the bridge, which includes steel-plate girders, a concrete deck, and railings, as well as conducting necessary repairs to the bridge’s substructure. The Route 207 northbound bridge will be closed to all traffic late next month, specifically in August 2025.

During the nine-month closure, northbound traffic will be redirected to utilize the southbound bridge, which will maintain one open travel lane in each direction. Additionally, Route 207 will be reduced to two travel lanes during this period. To ensure safety in the work zone, the speed limit will be lowered from 60 mph to 45 mph for the duration of the construction. Traffic control signs indicating the temporary speed limit will be installed and covered prior to the start of construction, only to be unveiled when the work begins.

VDOT anticipates that, weather permitting, the northbound bridge is expected to reopen by April 2026. This area sees an average of 12,000 vehicles each day, so the department is taking steps to alert drivers about the impending closure and diversion through message boards placed along Route 207.

The construction contract has been awarded to Kokosing Construction Co. Inc., a company with experience in similar projects, ensuring that the work is undertaken by qualified professionals. The project aims to enhance the safety and structural integrity of the bridge, which plays a crucial role in the transportation network in Caroline County.

The need for the bridge replacement arises from the aging infrastructure, requiring both repairs and updates to meet current safety standards. By replacing key elements of the bridge’s superstructure and addressing substructure issues, VDOT aims to provide a reliable and secure route for the thousands of daily commuters and local residents who depend on Route 207 for travel.

Community members and motorists are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly and be aware of the altered traffic patterns once construction begins. VDOT is committed to minimizing disruptions during the project and ensuring a streamlined traffic flow once the construction is complete.

This project reflects ongoing efforts by VDOT to improve roadways and infrastructure throughout Virginia, particularly in areas where heavy traffic is prevalent. The successful completion of this project is vital for maintaining safe transportation routes that cater to the needs of the public.

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Additional Resources

• Fredericksburg Free Press: Route 207 Bridge Construction
• Google Search: Caroline County bridge construction
• Fredericksburg Free Press: Area Road Work Update
• Wikipedia: Bridge
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