Barge strike closes drawbridge in Virginia

Centerville Bridge City Of Chesapeake.52aeb2

(CHESAPEAKE, Va.) — The Coast Guard is investigating an allision between a barge and the Centerville Turnpike Bridge that occurred early Saturday morning.

Watch standers at Sector Virginia received the report of the allision at 4:46 a.m. and released a safety marine information broadcast alerting Intracoastal Waterway mariners of the incident. The Centerville Turnpike Bridge sustained damage from the strike and remains closed to vehicle traffic.

A marine investigating officer and marine inspectors from Sector Virginia are on scene conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the allision.

The Coast Guard released a marine information safety broadcast establishing a safety zone prohibiting vessels from approaching or transiting within 100 feet of the bridge. A 29-foot response boat-small from Station Portsmouth and Chesapeake Police boats are on scene to ensure safety in the area.

Anyone with information regarding this incident that could assist the Coast Guard in their investigation is asked to contact the Sector Virginia Command Center at (757) 483-8567.

– U.S. Coast Guard

Centerville Bridge City Of Chesapeake.52aeb2
City of Chesapeake file photo of the Centerville Turnpike Bridge.
By Professional Mariner Staff