Eastern Shore Requires Unique Maintenance Techniques for State Highways
(May 17, 2023) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration shops on the lower Eastern Shore are preparing state roads for the influx of travelers heading to Ocean City and other tourist destinations this summer. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Ocean City becomes Maryland’s second largest city with tens of thousands of people traveling to the resort town each weekend.
“Highways within our shore locations are not far above sea level, which leads to challenges for roadway drainage systems during high tides and storms,” said State Highway Administration District 1 Engineer Mark Crampton. “Our crews work hard to ensure all state roads are well maintained and manicured to welcome our spring and summer guests.”
SHA photo: Crews use a vacuum system to deep clean a drainage system on US 113 in Worcester County
Crews have been cleaning the inlets, pipes, and ditches that are part of the highway drainage system. Debris and litter collect over time and require deep cleaning with a vacuum truck to ensure good drainage flow.
State Highway Administration crews also are performing debris removal near bridges – this can result in temporary lane closures as cranes are needed to hoist large tree limbs that collect and create dams under bridge structures.
SHA photo: Crews install a new sign on MD 611 (Stephen Decatur Highway) at the entrance to Assateague Island, Worcester County
Another critical maintenance activity is replacing worn road signs and line striping. Salinity of the air on the Eastern Shore and long periods of sunlight cause road signs to fade faster than in Western Maryland counties. Line striping often wears faster, requiring more frequent replacement.
The State Highway Administration reminds all travelers that as they plan their Maryland Eastern Shore vacation, be sure to develop a travel plan. Leave early or stay late to avoid traffic congestion and stay on US 50 – it’s the most efficient way to travel to and from the state’s ocean resort towns.
For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to
Project Portal, or visit the homepage at
roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to
md511.maryland.gov. Chesapeake Bay Bridge information is available by calling 855-BAYSPAN.