Norfolk Southern Bridge
Swing drawbridgeNorfolk Southern Bridge is a swing drawbridge with 6 ft of clearance closed, measured to mean high water. It opens to unrestricted height.
Clearances are from NOAA chart US5ORFBD, measured to mean high water. Actual clearance is lower whenever the water stands above that level, as at higher tides and in storm surge. Always confirm against your vessel's air draft and the posted clearance gauge before transiting.
Pathr nautical charts
Norfolk Southern Bridge on the chart
Find the bridge and its charted vertical clearance in one view. Select a pin to compare nearby bridges, see open and closed clearances where charted, and open its operating details.
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.
Frequently asked
What is the clearance under Norfolk Southern Bridge?+
Norfolk Southern Bridge is a swing drawbridge with 6 ft of clearance closed, measured to mean high water. It opens to unrestricted height. These figures are from NOAA chart data. Real clearance drops whenever the water stands above the level they are measured to, so leave a margin for your air draft.
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
Tides & conditions at this crossing
Clearance under Norfolk Southern Bridge shrinks as the water rises. Check the water level and marine conditions at the nearest NOAA station, Portsmouth, Naval Shipyard (3 mi away).
