TEMPORARY CLOSURE: SMALL SECTION OF THE CAPITAL TRAIL NEAR MM 51.5 (RICHMOND)

Trail Alert Update (9/15): A small section of the Virginia Capital Trail remains closed between Great Shiplock Park (MM 51.2) and the Floodwall (MM 51.7) after July’s train derailment. The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) has taken over the repair project and is working on a solution to complete the restoration. According to DPW, damage to the canopy foundations requires additional engineering and redesign before repair work can move forward. In the meantime, the City has installed additional crossings, signage, and Jersey barriers to help guide and protect people walking and biking around the closed section.

Here's what you need to know:

• For your safety, please follow the marked detour and do not enter the closed section of the Trail. Objects and debris may fall from the damaged canopy, creating a hazard and potential for injury.

• Canopy repairs remain in the planning and redesign phase. DPW is working through the engineering, contracting, and materials needed to complete the restoration.

• There is currently no firm completion date. DPW estimates that full restoration could take approximately 3–6 months, depending on the redesign, engineering, contracting, and availability of materials.

• You may also notice corn growing along the riverbanks near the closed section of the Trail. The cornstalks grew from corn spilled during the June train derailment. The corn is not recommended for eating and is not expected to remain through the first frost.

We know the continued closure is frustrating and appreciate everyone’s patience as the City works toward a safe and lasting solution.

Thank you to DPW crews, CSX, the City of Richmond, and everyone working to repair the canopy and restore Trail access.

* A freight train derailed above the Capital Trail near Mile Marker 51.7 at Dock Street and 21st Street on Friday, July 3. The train was carrying corn and grain. Repair efforts remain underway.

INCREASED FOOT TRAFFIC ON THE TRAIL: CAP TRAIL CLASSIC ON OCTOBER 24, 2026, BETWEEN THE RICHMOND FLOODWALL & MESSER RD IN HENRICO COUNTY (MM 51.7 - MM 47)

There will be increased foot traffic on the Capital Trail between the Richmond Floodwall (MM 51.7) and Messer Road (MM 47) in Henrico County on October 24, 2026, from 6:00 am to 12:30 pm during the Cap Trail Classic. Please be alert and use caution. For more information, visit virginiacapitaltrail.org/captrailrun. Best of luck to all the runners and walkers!

TEMPORARY TRAIL CLOSURE: NEAR INDIAN FIELDS, OCTOBER 27 & 28, FOR TRAIL MAINTENANCE (MM 23)

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will be laying asphalt along the Virginia Capital Trail near Indian Fields, Mile Marker 23, on Tuesday and Wednesday (October 27 and 28), weather permitting. A temporary Trail closure will be in place during this work. Please use caution in the area and follow any posted signage.