(October 18, 2011) – Construction crews today began initial work on three bridges along the first segment of the Intercounty Connector (ICC/MD 200) in Montgomery County to modify several concrete support piers to improve their long-term durability.  The three bridges are along Emory Lane, Needwood Road, and Georgia Avenue (MD 97).   Each bridge carries local traffic over the ICC.  This initial work is expected to continue through the next two weeks and will likely require some lane closures along the ICC.  All three bridges can continue to carry traffic and all will remain open to traffic while the modifications are being performed.  

 

“During recent State inspections, hairline cracks were identified on several concrete piers of the three bridges,” said ICC Project Director Melinda Peters.   “After consultations with the engineering and contracting teams, and an independent expert, it has been determined that modifications to supplement the support structures are required to ensure the long-term safety and durability of the bridges.  The contractor has been directed to immediately begin making short-term modifications and develop the plan for further long-term corrective actions.”

 

Inspections of other bridges along the ICC were conducted and no immediate concerns were identified.  The design of concrete piers in question was conducted under a joint venture of Parsons Transportation Group and Jacobs Engineering.  The construction contractor is Intercounty Constructors, which is a joint venture of Granite Construction Company, Corman Construction Inc. and G.A. & F.C. Wagman, Inc.  Any costs involved with these modifications will be the responsibility of the contractor.

Drivers traveling in the vicinity of the Emory Lane, Needwood Road and Georgia Avenue bridges are urged to be alert for temporary signage and "flagging" operations.   Initial modifications visible to the public this week will be temporary.  Long-term modifications will occur in the coming weeks.

 

The first segment of the ICC opened to traffic in February.  The segment from Georgia Avenue to I-95 is on schedule to open by the end of this year.​
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