During the June 11, 2024 work session, the Chesapeake City Council received significant updates on two major projects: the Deep Creek Bridge replacement and the operations of the Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA).

Colonel Brian Hallberg of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers presented the latest developments on the Deep Creek Bridge project, which aims to replace the nearly 100-year-old structure with a modern five-lane drawbridge. Construction began in September 2023, following a groundbreaking ceremony in May of the same year. As of May 2024, the project is approximately 30% complete, with ongoing work on critical concrete structures and stormwater drainage systems. Despite facing delays due to weather and utility coordination, the project is expected to be completed by spring 2027, with the first two lanes anticipated to open by October 2025. Hallberg emphasized the importance of collaboration with the City of Chesapeake to resolve utility issues and ensure the project's success.

The council also heard from Dennis Begley of SPSA, who provided an operational update amid challenges facing the waste management authority. Begley highlighted the expiration of a key waste disposal agreement with Wheelabrator, which is set to end on June 30, 2024. This change, coupled with a fire that damaged the waste conveyor system, has forced SPSA to redirect waste to regional landfills, accelerating the need for landfill expansion. Currently, the regional landfill has limited capacity, with projections indicating it could reach capacity by April 2027. Begley noted that the authority is exploring alternative waste management strategies, including enhanced recycling efforts and potential new technologies to improve waste sorting and processing.

Both presentations underscored the importance of infrastructure development and waste management in Chesapeake, with officials expressing a commitment to overcoming challenges through effective communication and collaboration. The council members acknowledged the efforts of the Army Corps and SPSA in navigating these complex projects, emphasizing the need for continued support and innovation in addressing the community's infrastructure and environmental needs.