News Room

News Release

JORDAN BRIDGE CLOSURE PROCEEDS AS PLANNED

CHESAPEAKE – The City of Chesapeake Public Works Department will permanently close the Jordan Bridge on Saturday, November 8, at 8:00 a.m. The bridge is closing due to the advanced age and deteriorated condition of the 80 year-old structure.  Public Works recommended closure of the bridge, and City Council approved the measure, to ensure public safety.  Cost of a replacement bridge is estimated at $300 million, and the City is committed to preserving the Jordan Bridge corridor and seeking state and federal funds for a replacement bridge.

At 8:00 a.m., Saturday, the bridge gates on the approaches to the bridge will be lowered.  Following extensive final operations tasks such as posting detour signs and securing the bridge from unauthorized users, the bridge span will be raised for the last time at approximately 12:00–1:00 p.m.

“The building of the Jordan Bridge provided an important link to our neighbors in Portsmouth.  It has served its purpose well over the past 80 years. The City of Chesapeake recognizes the importance of a replacement bridge and will continue to seek funding to re-establish the corridor,” stated City Manager William Harrell.

As a result of transportation strategy review, the new Jordan Bridge bus service will begin on Monday, November 10, at the Elizabeth River Park located on Poindexter Street.  For bus schedule details go to the City website at www.CityofCheaspeake.net or Hampton Roads Transit website at www.hrtransit.org.

A commemoration will be held next spring at the bridge site.  Citizens who are interested in assisting with memorial plans for the Jordan Bridge should call 382-CITY to be placed on the meeting notice list.

The Jordan Bridge was constructed in 1928 and is located on Poindexter Street west of I-464.  It crosses the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River.  For more historical information see attached fact sheet or go to www.CityofChesapeake.net and click on the Jordan Bridge link from the home page.