Route 727 bridge project on schedule

The Virginia Department of Transportation continues its efforts to replace the Route 727 (Airport Road) bridge in Rockingham County.

Contractors have finished one of the bridge’s two concrete abutments and the center pier. They are working on the second abutment and retaining walls. Later this summer they will install steel girders and reinforced concrete bridge deck, which will support Route 727 over the North River at Mount Crawford.

Part of the road is also being rebuilt on a new alignment along right of way purchased from Dynamic Aviation. The new section will eliminate two sharp curves just west of the bridge. Crews are preparing the roadbed in the new location, and working on drainage pipes and ditches.

The new bridge and re-routed Route 727 are still scheduled for completion in early December. All work is weather permitting. The total estimated cost for this project is $4.5 million dollars, which includes design, right of way and construction.

Route 727 was closed following a vehicle crash that impacted the bridge in late October 2011.  The road will stay closed until the new bridge is complete.