Temporary Signals/Alternating Lane along MD 273 near Guide Traffic as Part of Bridge Replacement Project

(March 13, 2018) – On Monday, March 18, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will activate temporary traffic signals and place traffic in a single lane configuration on the MD 273 (Telegraph Road) Bridge over Big Elk Creek in northeastern Cecil County. The temporary signals will guide traffic safely across the bridge using one lane while the other lane is closed for bridge reconstruction. This pattern will remain in place until spring 2020.

Motorists are urged to stay alert for the new signals and allow extra time when traveling MD 273 in the Fair Hill area.

The new traffic pattern is part of MDOT SHA’s project to replace the 55-year old bridge. This project will be completed by summer 2020.

In conjunction with the bridge replacement, MDOT SHA will reconstruct portions of two Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Area trails beneath the bridge. Occasional trail closures will be needed throughout the project and trail closure/detour information will be posted in all five Fair Hill parking lots. Visitors are encouraged to check these resources prior to using the trails.

MDOT SHA awarded the $6.6 million construction contract to Allan Myers of Fallston. On average, more than 8,000 vehicles travel this part of MD 273 each day.

While MDOT SHA and its transportation partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Slow down and don’t follow too closely. Work Zone Safety is in Your Hands. For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, click on Road Ready, MDOT SHA's electronic construction brochure. For a look at real-time commute conditions, log onto md511.maryland.gov.