This latest and, hopefully, final update on the Gilmerton Bridge is sent to us by our good friend, Matt the Bridge Tender, who has faithfully kept us updated on the long and frustrating construction of the new Gilmerton bridge. Thank you Matt!!

Ahoy from the Gilmerton Bridge (Mile Marker 5.8 ICW – Southern Branch Elizabeth River, Chesapeake VA),
Just wanted to share with all of you that have been coming through the Gilmerton draw since construction started on the new bridge (Nov 2009) that the contractor told me yesterday he just completed working on the new fender system that day. I really do appreciate everyone’s patience (especially the tug Captains) in dealing with all the extra restrictions over the past few years.
As a reminder (until the Nav charts catch up) the new vertical clearance for the Gilmerton Bridge is 35 feet at MHW in the closed position. Our new clearance gauges were installed last Friday.
Also very important – all the bridges, locks and commercial traffic in this area are on Marine Channel 13.

Below are the only restrictions that now apply to the Gilmerton Bridge:

The draw of the Gilmerton (US13/460) bridge, mile 5.8, in Chesapeake:
(1) Shall open on signal at any time for commercial vessels carrying liquefied flammable gas or other hazardous materials.

(2) From 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays:

(i) Need not open for the passage of recreational or commercial vessels that do not qualify under paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of this section.

(ii) Need not open for commercial cargo vessels, including tugs, and tugs with tows, unless 2 hours advance notice has been given to the Gilmerton Bridge at (757) 485-5488.

(3) Shall open on signal at all other times.

That’s it for now from beautiful downtown Gilmerton. If we meet – hope to see you on 2 whistles so I can shake your hand,
Matt the Bridge Tender

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Bridge Directory Listing For Gilmerton Hwy Bridge

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Gilmerton Hwy Bridge