Posted September 5, 2025

Richmond, VA – The Department of Public Works (DPW) has begun work to install protective chain link mesh underneath the Lee Bridge as part of a safety-focused maintenance project aimed at enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists on the walkway below. This work began August 11 and is scheduled to continue through November 2025, weather permitting.

 To accommodate the project, the northbound right lane and bike lane on the Lee Bridge will be closed during nighttime construction hours. The bike lane will remain open and clear of equipment when work is not actively being performed, however barrels may remain in place on the bridge for safety. 

 This initiative is a preventative measure intended to add an extra layer of safety for those using the popular pedestrian route across the James River. It is not in response to any specific incident involving falling debris, but part of DPW’s ongoing efforts to address aging infrastructure and reduce future risk.

 “This mesh installation is a forward-looking solution to ensure the safety of everyone who uses the pedestrian path below the bridge. We’re talking action now to prevent problems before they happen,” said Bobby Vincent, Director of Public Works.

DPW appreciates the public’s patience during this critical improvement effort and will continue to provide updates as the work progresses. 

Please give our construction workers extra space and slow down when you see orange cones in the work zones.

To learn more about bridge, transportation, and other construction projects across the city, please make plans to attend RVA Builds: The Infrastructure Information Initiative Event on Tuesday, September 23 from 5 – 8:30 p.m. at Main Street Station, 1500 Main Street. This event will provide residents with a unique opportunity to connect with city staff, ask questions and engage with plans shaping Richmond infrastructure future. RSVP today or by September 22 at rva.gov/rvabuilds

For more information on DPW, please visit us online at rva.gov/public-works or email us at AskPublicWorks@rva.gov

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA 

###

The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 195 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1