UPDATE: Major delays are now affecting traffic at the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge, with openings taking up to 60 minutes due to critical mechanical issues. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) warns that each bridge opening will require manual operation, extending typical wait times significantly.
This urgent situation impacts both land and marine traffic between Yorktown and Gloucester Point. Each opening is expected to take an additional 25 to 40 minutes, meaning motorists and boaters should prepare for substantial delays. VDOT has advised marine vessels to notify the bridge operators two hours in advance of their intended passage—a significant change from the usual protocol where no advance notice is required.
VDOT emphasizes that these measures are necessary to manage the staffing requirements for manual openings, as mandated by federal regulations enforced by the Coast Guard. The agency is actively developing a repair plan while procurement is underway for temporary fixes aimed at reducing these lengthy opening durations.
“VDOT has developed a repair plan, and procurement is underway for temporary repairs to reduce the opening durations until the more extensive long-term solution can be developed and implemented,”
the agency stated in a recent news release.
Motorists and boaters are urged to plan their routes accordingly to minimize disruptions. For real-time updates and alternative routes, visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov or download the 511 Virginia mobile app.
This developing situation underscores the immediate need for affected travelers to stay informed and adjust their plans to avoid lengthy delays. As repairs are initiated, further updates will be provided by VDOT.
