The bridge over Dragon Run at the Middlesex-Gloucester line is once again under emergency repair due to a crash early this morning involving a commercial tractor-trailer.
According to Virginia State Police, the incident occurred on Route 17 near Tidewater Trail when a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia, driven by Calvin J. Woodward of Brandywine, MD veered off the northbound side of the road.
Charge & Go Hands-Free: 7-Color Backlit Phone Holder | Wireless Charging | Mount on Windshield / Dashboard / Vent
The truck hit the guardrail before the bridge then collided into the concrete structure causing extensive damage to the bridge’s support pillars and rail system.
Investigation & Charge
VSP is continuing their investigation but announced that Woodward has already been charged with failure to obey highway signage.
Traffic Impact & Repair
VDOT responded quickly, inspecting the bridge and deeming it in need of urgent repairs.
Route 17 northbound is reduced to a single lane at the bridge. The right lane is closed and is expected to remain closed for several days.
Each crash and the repeated damage and lane closures renew calls for the bridge to be replaced. Today, VDOT underscored that a replacement project is scheduled to begin in 2026.
WATCH:
Follow the Watchful Eye on X, Facebook, Instagram, Rumble & YouTube to keep up with what’s happening in Virginia
