Urban Design Committee recommends approval of Lombardi Street bridge replacement with shared-use paths

RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond City Urban Design Committee on June 12 voted to recommend approval of a proposed replacement for the Lombardi Street bridge spanning CSX tracks between Lee Street and the traffic circle near I‑95, endorsing a design that includes shared‑use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists, architectural parapets that echo nearby masonry, and upgraded lighting.

The committee approved the recommendation by voice vote after a motion by Ms. Gimmer, seconded by Mr. McKenzie; roll call showed unanimous support from members present. The applicants and city staff described the project budget as about $21,600,000, a construction timeline that could begin in spring 2027 with expected completion around 2029, and several technical constraints tied to CSX track operations and an adjacent combined sewer outfall (CSO).

The proposal would replace a 122‑year‑old structure originally built in 1903 (widened in 1931). Project presenters said the new bridge would be shortened from about 153 feet to approximately 104 feet, keep a width near 53 feet overall, and reduce the vehicular travelway from about 40 feet to roughly 24 feet while providing generous shared‑use paths on both sides. The applicants said the existing bridge is in poor structural condition, with significant section loss in steel elements and holes in the concrete deck, and that CSX currently owns the structure though the city expects ownership to transfer to Richmond after replacement.

Jeremy Schlussel, a consultant with Whitman Requardt/Whitman…