The Virginia Department of Transportation performed preventative maintenance at the George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge last Wednesday.

The work necessitated several short closures, said Laurie Simmons, a spokesperson for VDOT, with the work being conducted during off-peak hours.

Crews greased the three bridge grates, Simmons said, in an attempt to get the span ready for wintry weather.

Also, crews recently conducted inspections of the span using a telescoping boom that swings under the bridge for a close-up look.

Simmons said that there have been several late afternoon bridge openings in recent weeks, which have hindered motorists trying to traverse the bridge during rush hour. The openings were requested by commercial ships, she said, and the bridge must open on a ship’s command. ...