AIWW Deep Creek Bridge
Chesapeake, VA
Built in 1934, Deep Creek Bridge is a federally owned and operated two-lane bridge that crosses the Dismal Swamp Canal at U.S. Route 17 Business.
In October 1996, the approved initial appraisal concluded the bridge is functionally obsolete because of increasing traffic volumes, too narrow of a roadway and poor alignment with the connecting roads.
Replacing the bridge will improve traffic flow, meet Virginia Department of Transportation and City of Chesapeake requirements, and comes at a time in which road improvements are being made to either side of the bridge. The Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to replace the Deep Creek Bridge with a five-lane roadway located 100 feet south of the existing bridge.
It’s estimated the local economy will see a $25 million increase in earnings over a three-year period because of the bridge construction. The overall economy will see a $75 million increase with 720 jobs created during the three-year period the bridge will be constructed. Once complete, Corps economists estimate citizens in southside Hampton Roads will save $8.9 million annually in vehicle operating costs and time saved.
Once completed, the AIWW Deep Creek Bridge will be under the operations and ownership of the City of Chesapeake.
Updated: 10-Jun-2010