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VDOT updates Smithfield council on Cypress Creek bridge work; weekend closures possible for beam removal
Summary
A VDOT representative told the council the Cypress Creek bridge project has shifted traffic lanes and will enter a phase requiring removal and replacement of multiple beams; the town was told short full closures (2–4 days) are likely when beams are lifted.
A Virginia Department of Transportation presenter gave the Town Council a project update Feb. 4 on the Cypress Creek (Grace Street) bridge repairs and the related Gray Street resurfacing plan.
VDOT reported crews completed work on one side of the bridge and shifted traffic to the north side to allow the contractor to work on the opposite side. The contractor removed deteriorated, mud-buried beams and is installing lower-profile replacement beams and carbon-fiber tendons intended to extend the structure's service life.
"We were in phase 1 where we did all the work on one side of the bridge. Now we are shifting traffic to the other side," the VDOT representative said. He said workers are also performing substructure repairs including pile jackets, cleaning and waterproofing beneath the span.
Officials warned that beam removal and placement will require short, full closures (typically a vehicle closure) for each lifting operation. The presenter estimated the realistic closure window for each beam set at up to four days, though past lifts finished in two to three days. "We give an extra day to ourselves, but most times realistic day is four days," he said.
Town staff and the presenter agreed to coordinate notices and avoid interfering with local events. The presenter said sidewalk access over the bridge will be closed while the three-span section (about 180 feet) is taken out during the upcoming phase and that barricades will be used where deck is removed.
On Gray Street, officials said winter weather delayed initial work; state forces will resume curbing and the town is working on a full-depth reclamation (FDR) contract with potential construction in 2026. Funding for milling and paving remains in place, the presenter said.
Council members asked about signage, barriers and safety after a recent crash into a work-area attenuator. VDOT said they will place multiple sidewalk-closed signs and barricades, and that additional temporary signage could be added near the bridge. The presenter also said the project updates and photos are posted on the VDOT project webpage and on PR releases.
Ending: Council members thanked VDOT for the update and asked staff to continue coordinating closure notices to minimize impacts on festivals and traffic.
