
T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge (T. Pott.)
Pedestrian & Cycling Bridge
The long anticipated physical link between Brown’s Island and Manchester, this pedestrian and cycling pathway sits atop a former hydroelectric dam, some 20 feet above the river. Completed in 2016 and named for the late City of Richmond senior planner T. Tyler Potterfield, the bridge provides unequaled river vistas, panoramic views of the downtown skyline, along with sounds that belie the extraordinarily close relationship of the bridge to the roaring river. The wheelchair accessible bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists 24 hours a day.
Access from both sides
Access is provided from either side of the river: Brown’s Island on the north and from Semmes Ave. on the south side. To reach the bridge from the south side of the river the approach is behind the SunTrust complex on Semmes Avenue. There is a short bridge above train tracks, with views of the Manchester Climbing Wall, from which you can follow to a sidewalk to the bridge. Near the end of the 1,600-foot-long bridge, near Brown’s Island, you’ll reach an installation titled “Three Days in April 1865.” It recounts how the former Capital of the Confederate States of America fell and many of its people fled while fire consumed the city.
Activities
Other Locations In or Above the River
Location Details
North side: Parking in lot off Tredegar St., about 50 spaces
Bike racks: northside only
Bathroom: Port-a-potty at Brown’s Island and Tredegar Parking Lot
Water Fountain: yes
Wheelchair accessible
Hours: Never closed