JAMESTOWN — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) announced that the installation of new composite pilings, known as “Dolphins,” on both sides of the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry (JSF) was completed on March 18 on time and on budget.
In total, 18 pilings were installed in ferry slips on both sides of the James River; thirteen of which were in Surry and five in Jamestown.
Ferry traffic remained uninterrupted throughout the project.
“Transporting motorists safely and efficiently is our number one priority,” said Kevin Moroney, ferry facility manager. “Replacement of these pilings that help guide our ferries into the slips, and plans for others to be replaced, will help us continue this mission while also helping to protect the environment.”
The project received $5.13 million in grant funding in 2021 in order to replace the existing pilings, which were constructed from wood that was treated with creosote and chromated copper.
The new pilings, installed by Marine Contracting Corporation located in Virginia Beach, are environmentally-friendly, modern, are stronger and longer-lasting fiber-reinforced polymer.
Previously in Jamestown, three pilings were replaced in 2017, and five were replaced in 2019 under a separate grant-funded projects. The dolphin replacement project has won numerous awards.
According to a press release from VDOT, there are still 28 pilings due to be replaced as crews continue to work on the project.
