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To the editor:

Many readers do not know the history of why the Kings Highway Bridge on State Route 125 was not constructed.

The Virginia Department of Transportation conducted a design public hearing on the Kings Highway Bridge replacement some 20 years ago, and the funding was then in place for the replacement. Some of the local politicos did not want it, because it was too close to their residence and the noise could possibly disturb their sleep. Secondarily, the proposed design height of 35 feet would limit the development of their constituents’ properties due to the height requirements of the mast of pleasure sailing crafts.

Out of the blue came a proposal that the bridge be relocated and connected to Godwin Boulevard, State Route 10, between the village of Chuckatuck and the Reid’s Ferry Area, as a large tract of land could be developed. The Virginia Department of Transportation then apparently shelved the project on the local disagreement.

It is my humble opinion the Kings Highway Bridge should be constructed near its former location. If the city approves the new location on Godwin Boulevard, the city of Suffolk should be prepared to go to the expense to widen Godwin Boulevard to a four-lane roadway, since it is presently at maximum capacity of vehicles per day. Godwin Boulevard at Kings Fork Road carries approximately 23,000 vehicles per day and in the village of Chuckatuck, the Route 10 and Route 125 intersection carries approximately 13,000 vehicles per day.

I’m confident the city has already told the consulting firm of their expectations.

G. Stewart Tyler

Suffolk