The Virginia Department of Transportation announced on March 13 that demolition of the former toll plaza at the George P. Coleman Bridge will begin Monday, March 16, causing periodic lane closures for Route 17 travelers between York and Gloucester counties.
The removal of the toll plaza is expected to affect traffic patterns this spring as crews work to dismantle the structure at the bridge’s northern end. The project aims to improve safety and traffic flow by eliminating outdated infrastructure following the end of tolling operations in August 2025.
Crews will start mobilizing equipment and installing work zone signs on March 16, weather permitting. From March 17 through March 19, both northbound and southbound lanes near the former toll plaza will be reduced to a single lane from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Two lanes in each direction will remain open during peak travel times such as morning and evening rush hours. The demolition includes removing the canopy, booths, and an underground walkway, with road surface restoration planned near project completion. All work is scheduled for completion by mid-June.
Temporary pavement markings were installed after tolling ended last August to direct northbound traffic through three former booth lanes closest to the right shoulder. During construction, temporary traffic patterns will continue as crews require space for equipment and demolition activities. The speed limit in this area remains at 35 mph northbound, with advisory signs posting a recommended speed of 20 mph until demolition concludes.
The Coleman Bridge spans 3,750 feet across the York River and is recognized as the largest double-swing span bridge in the United States. VDOT continues its maintenance and operation responsibilities for this structure.
According to the official website, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) builds, maintains, and operates roads, bridges, and tunnels across Virginia to support safe transportation systems. VDOT manages one of America’s largest state highway networks covering tens of thousands of lane-miles statewide according to its official website. Services include highway maintenance, traffic management through systems like Virginia 511, oversight of land-use permits along state routes according to VDOT, planning and construction oversight according to VDOT, historical development since its origins as a State Highway Commission in 1906 according to VDOT, and headquarters located at 1221 East Broad Street in Richmond according to VDOT.
Demolition Services, Inc., based in Culpeper, has been contracted for this project.
