Welcome to Oz

Richmond was founded and has grown around the James River. Over the years this river has progressed from a vital transportation artery to what is arguably the largest source of entertainment in the city. Every year thousands of people use the miles of trails and beaches that have been established along its banks.

The only problem is that occasionally a large storm will cause the James to overflow its banks. This is made even worse by the low elevation of a large part of downtown (referred to as Shockoe Bottom). In 1994 a floodwall was constructed to protect the low-lying areas of the city.

This is just one of a dozen or so roadway closures in the floodwall. This particular closure is located on the south side of the river close to the Interstate 95 overpass (which can be seen in the foreground).