Beginning October 21, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will start construction to replace the Route 702 (Fontaine Avenue Extended) bridge over Morey Creek in Albemarle County. The project marks the first phase of work aimed at addressing structural deficiencies in the existing bridge.
During construction, Route 702 will be reduced to a single narrowed travel lane across the bridge. Temporary traffic signals will be installed on each end of the bridge, as well as at nearby intersections including Route 820 (Buckingham Circle) and a commercial entrance. These signals will control traffic so that only one direction can cross at a time. This arrangement is expected to remain in place until spring 2027, depending on weather conditions.
“The existing concrete slab bridge was built in 1932 and is considered structurally deficient. VDOT will replace the structure with a new box culvert that meets current design and safety standards,” according to VDOT officials. The bridge currently carries about 1,700 vehicles daily.
Motorists are advised to expect delays and use caution while traveling through the work zone. Updates for local road conditions are available through VDOT’s Culpeper District social media channels.
Travelers can also access real-time traffic information and camera feeds through the 511 Virginia website, by using the free VDOT 511 mobile app, or by calling 511 from any phone within Virginia.
