NORFOLK, Va. — The Downtown Tunnel between Norfolk and Portsmouth has reopened after officials say a semi-truck became stuck inside the westbound tube on Monday.
In a release just after 1 p.m., Virginia State Police (VSP) said drivers heading west on Interstate 264 are being redirected to southbound Interstate 464.
VSP said the semi-truck driver "ignored" signs warning of height restrictions. Photos of the scene show the trailer's load scraping the top of the tunnel.
"It is critical that commercial truck operators follow all posted height, width and weight restrictions at the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels," Elizabeth River Crossing officials said.
The maximum height allowed at the Downtown Tunnel is 14 feet and six inches.
Crews worked to dislodge the tractor-trailer, which officials anticipated would take around two hours. As of 3:35 p.m., traffic in the area is moving again.
Officials worked to remove damage to the tunnel, including removing 27 ceiling panels that will need to be replaced.
VSP is handling the investigation.