Elmon T. Gray, who represented the area in the Virginia Senate from 1972 until 1992, advocated a bridge to replace the ferry for many years but the bridge was vehemently opposed by residents of a nearby upscale waterfront residential community in James City County as well as historic preservationists.

[4] Given the strong opposition of local residents on both sides of the river and the cost of such construction, plans for a bridge have not gained broad support since.

Opponents are concerned with adverse effects of potential increases in population that a permanent crossing may cause on the southern shore of the James River.

In addition, the need to provide deepwater access for shipping would require either a high bridge or drawbridge, adding to the potential cost.

Other critics cite the negative effect of a bridge on views from Jamestown Island, the Colonial Parkway, and the surrounding area.

[5] Powhatan can carry up to 70 vehicles and 499 passengers, and was built by VT Halter Marine in 2018 to replace the 1936-built Virginia that had a capacity of only 28 cars.

[5] To mitigate rush-hour traffic and delays due to security measures, in October 2007, Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA) began a Park and Ride transit bus service from three stops in Surry County to limited stops at several major points in James City County and Williamsburg.

[6] The bus makes three round trips each morning and three each afternoon during peak commuter periods, Monday through Saturday.