Those traveling the Intracoastal Waterway need to take note that the Dismal Swamp Canal closed for 90 days starting Sunday, January 5 so the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can make repairs to the South Mills Lock canal gates. During this time the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, Route 1 through the Great Bridge Lock in Chesapeake, VA will remain open 24 hours a day. seven days a week. Read More