The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has hired Caton Construction Group for a $3.9 million project to replace the Route 601 (Old Ivy Road) bridge over the U.S. 29/250 bypass in Albemarle County. Work begins on February 17 and VDOT expects to complete the project by the end of 2026.
The project will see the replacement of the bridge deck and beams as well the as the redevelopment of the piers. The new structure will be slightly higher, increasing vertical clearance for vehicles passing underneath on U.S. 29/250. Approximately 8,000 vehicles use the bridge daily.
During construction, traffic on Route 601 will be restricted to one eastbound lane, reduced to a width of 10 feet 8 inches. Trucks longer than 45 feet will be unable to turn north on U.S. 29 east of the bridge and should instead use U.S. 250 (Ivy Road).
Westbound drivers will need to detour north onto U.S. 29/250, make a U-turn at Barracks Road, and use the Route 601 exit to access destinations west of the closure. The contractor will also implement nighttime weekend closures on U.S. 29/250 as needed, with separate detours for trucks and cars.
Truck traffic heading north should follow Interstate 64 east to Exit 124, then travel west on U.S. 250 (Richmond Road) and take the U.S. 29 North exit (Emmet Street/Seminole Trail). Passenger vehicles and local traffic on U.S. 29/250 will use U.S. 250 Business (Ivy Road) and Emmet Street to navigate the closure.