HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) – Traffic is expected to shift onto the new half of Mallory Street Bridge soon, as part of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel Expansion Project.

The first half of a new Mallory Street Bridge was supposed to open to traffic on July 19, but officials with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) announced Friday night that the work will be delayed a week to finalize work on pedestrian walkways.

VDOT said when the shift happens, it will allow traffic to continue along the HRBT while crews work to demolish and rebuild the rest of the bridge. Construction on the bridge will include earthen retaining walls, signals, drainage, pavement and new pedestrian and bike lanes.

“This is the second milestone in as many months,” Communications Manager with VDOT Paula Miller said. “So, this is a great win for motorists, and especially on the Hampton side.”

Courtesy: VDOT

During construction, emergency vehicles will still have access to the VA Medical Center and Hampton University.

VDOT encourages motorists to be alert while driving in the area while construction is ongoing.

The second half of the Mallory Street Bridge is expected to be finished by next summer, according to VDOT.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.