WASHINGTON — The weekend’s heavy rain caused a road frequently used by Virginia Railway Express commuters in Spotsylvania County to collapse into an 8-foot deep hole. Virginia Route 608/Benchmark Road will be closed for emergency repair until mid-June.
The rain opened a hole on Route 608 measuring 5 feet wide and 14 feet long along the pavement’s edge. The road closure will impact those who drive to the VRE station in Spotsylvania.
VDOT encourages drivers to use Route 2/Tidewater Trail or Route 17/Mills Drive as alternatives.
The road collapsed over three drainage pipes which were already in need of replacement, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation. Heavy rain sped up the deterioration of the pipes, rusting them at the base and washing away soil that supported the pavement.
“Due to the condition of the pipes and the pavement, closing the road is necessary for motorist safety,” VDOT’s Robbie Prezioso said in a news release.
Drivers who depend on Benchmark Road to reach the station can use the following detours:
