The Rappahannock River near Interstate 95 is open to boaters once again — at least for now.
The river channel that passes underneath the Rappahannock Falls Bridge that carries I-95 traffic over the waterway has is now open for recreational traffic. Prior today, boaters had to use a portage that was put into place in December 2019 to get to the water.
But the river being open again is only temporary, as the channel will close again in Fall 2020 as part of the bridge project. Once again, a portage will be required for boaters to enter the water.
All of this opening and closing of the river channel comes as part of the $132 million I-95 Southbound Rappahannock River Crossing, which began in August 2018 and will be underway through May 2022, according to a press release.
The project seeks to reduce I-95 congestion in the Fredericksburg area by providing local traffic with additional lanes to travel between Route 17 and Route 3 interchanges without merging into the interstate’s general-purpose lanes.
The Rappahannock River Crossing project will build three new general-purpose lanes for I-95 southbound stretching six miles in the current median of I-95. The new lanes will begin in the vicinity of Truslow Road, just north of Exit 133 at Route 17 in Stafford. The new lanes will end 1.2 miles south of Exit 130 at Route 3 in Fredericksburg, in Spotsylvania County.
The three existing I-95 southbound lanes will be converted to carry those traveling to the Route 17 and Route 3 interchanges, as well as the Safety Rest Area and Virginia Welcome Center.
Recent Stories
![announcement-6151010964919512737](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/announcement-6151010964919512737-630x420.jpg)
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
![announcement-6133063584918090649](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/announcement-6133063584918090649-630x420.jpg)
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and