RICHMOND, Va. — The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will conduct its annual floodwall testing beginning Saturday, May 31 through Friday, June 8, 2025. The testing will take place daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting, and is expected to impact both motorist and pedestrian access in key areas of the city.
During testing at the Mayo Bridge, closures will affect all forms of traffic, including vehicles, bicycles, and foot traffic. The City has emphasized that only authorized personnel will be allowed on-site, citing public safety concerns. Spectators are strictly prohibited.
The schedule of closures is as follows:
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Saturday, May 31: Mayo Bridge at Hull Street, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Bridge closed to all through traffic; southbound access to Mayo Island remains open.
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Sunday, June 1: Mayo Bridge at Dock Street, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Bridge closed to all through traffic; northbound access to Mayo Island remains open.
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Wednesday, June 4:
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South 12th & E. Byrd Street, 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. — Closure on E. Byrd Street between S. 12th and Virginia Streets.
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18th & Dock Street, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Closure on Dock Street from 18th to 21st Streets.
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Friday, June 8: 21st & Cary Street, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Closure on Cary Street between S. 20th and 21st Streets.
Barricades and signs will be placed at affected locations, and travelers are urged to follow all posted detours for their safety and the safety of utility workers.
This annual testing is a routine requirement under standards set by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure Richmond’s floodwall gates are fully operational in emergencies. The floodwall system was last tested in June 2024. Its most recent activation occurred in February 2025, when the Dock Street floodwall was closed as a precaution during heavy rainfall affecting the James River Basin.
For more information and updates, visit rva.gov.
