Norfolk Southern Bridge
Swing drawbridgeNorfolk Southern Bridge is a swing drawbridge with 6 ft closed, opening to unrestricted height.
Clearances are from NOAA charts, referenced to mean high water. Actual clearance is lower at higher tides and storm surge. Always confirm against your vessel's air draft and the posted clearance gauge before transiting.
How to request an opening
(d) The draw of the Norfolk Southern #7 Railroad Bridge, mile 5.8 in Chesapeake, shall operate as follows: (1) The draw shall be remotely controlled by the operator at the Norfolk Southern #5 Railroad Bridge office over the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River,
Source: US Coast Guard drawbridge regulations, 33 CFR 117.997 (Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, South Branch of the Elizabeth River to the Albermarle and Chesapeake Canal). Confirm before transiting.
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Frequently asked
What is the clearance under Norfolk Southern Bridge?+
Norfolk Southern Bridge is a swing drawbridge. Its closed vertical clearance is about 6 ft, and it opens to unrestricted height. Heights are referenced to mean high water (MHW).
How do I get Norfolk Southern Bridge to open?+
Contact the bridge tender on VHF-FM Channel 13, or sound the required signal. Operating schedule: (d) The draw of the Norfolk Southern #7 Railroad Bridge, mile 5.8 in Chesapeake, shall operate as follows: (1) The draw shall be remotely controlled by the operator at the Norfolk Southern #5 Railroad Bridge office over the Eastern Branch o
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