(September 29, 2011) - In response to the heavy rains that washed out a portion of MD 234 (Budds Creek Road) three weeks ago, the State Highway Administration will install a temporary bridge over Allens Fresh Run east of US 301 in Charles County.  The temporary structure will be approximately 100 feet long and have two 12-foot wide travel lanes capable of carrying all legal loads.  SHA expects to have the temporary structure operational with MD 234 open to traffic by the end of November, weather permitting.

Engineers are moving forward with site preparation and utility work for the temporary bridge.  No customer or utility impacts are expected from the power line work.  SHA is also evaluating different construction methods, such as integrating some of the structural elements of the temporary bridge into the new bridge to be constructed adjacent to the temporary span.  Both the temporary structure and the longer-term permanent structure are together anticipated to cost approximately $3 million.

“SHA continues to encourage area motorists to use State highways to reach parts of Charles and St.  Mary’s counties,” stated Lee Starkloff, District 5 Engineer.  “Motorists should continue to follow the posted detour route until MD 234 is reopened and drive at the appropriate speed for the conditions when using local routes.”

To learn more about State-maintained routes in southern Maryland, customers may call the SHA District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or by e-mail at shadistrict5@sha.state.md.us.

Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information! Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit: www.md511.org for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely - Maryland law restricts hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

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