VDOT has announced a two-week closure of the Gilmerton Bridge as part of its replacement project. The extended closure is scheduled to begin at 5 am on Monday, January 7, 2013.

During the closure, drivers should use the new South Norfolk Jordan Bridge as an alternate route to get to their destination. To help introduce drivers to this new facility, all vehicles can travel for FREE all day on Monday, January 7th! Additionally, a $1 discount is offered during the duration of the Gilmerton Bridge closure period (up to two consecutive weeks) for all vehicles traveling on the South Norfolk Jordan Bridge regardless of payment method. Cash is not accepted, and E-ZPass offers the most cost-effective way to travel the SNJB, but drivers also can establish a SNJB Pay by Plate account to manage travel fees only at this facility or receive an invoice by mail.

Check the directions below to help you find your way, but be warned --the free-flowing traffic and time savings are addicting and may lead drivers to adopt a permanent new commute route!

Eastbound travelers: From I-64, take exit 297 at Military Highway and turn left at the light. Proceed on US-13 for 1.3 miles to US-17/George Washington Highway. Turn left and follow 1.8 miles to Victory Boulevard. Turn right and follow for 1.8 miles to Elm Avenue. Turn right and proceed onto the Bridge to I-464. After exiting the Bridge, take I-464 South and follow 3.1 miles back to US-13/Military Highway via exit 2.

Westbound travelers: From US-13/Military Highway, merge onto I-464 North and proceed for 3.1 miles to Poindexter Street. Take exit 4-B and loop over the interstate, proceeding directly onto the Bridge. After exiting the Bridge, turn left on Victory Boulevard and follow 1.8 miles to US-17/George Washington Highway. Turn left and proceed 1.8 miles back to US-13/Military Highway. To access I-264 after exiting the Bridge, turn right on Elm Avenue and follow signs to I-264.

For more information about the Gilmerton Bridge Replacement Project, visit www.GilmertonBridge.org.