(October 24, 2012) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) is opening one lane of the new MD 313/318 (Federalsburg Highway) Bridge over Marshyhope Creek in Federalsburg, Caroline County beginning this afternoon, Wednesday, October 24.

 

One of the two lanes on the bridge will again carry vehicles by alternating traffic with  a temporary traffic signal on each side of the bridge.  Weather permitting; the entire bridge deck replacement and reopening of both lanes of traffic is scheduled for late December.

 

SHA closed one lane of the two-lane bridge in May as crews began replacing the bridge deck’s riding surface.  The project was closed to all traffic in late June when the  original riding surface deteriorated to the extent it had to be closed to all traffic. 

 

Since late June, non-commercial passenger vehicles have used one of several alternative routes through the Town of Federalsburg.  However, because of narrow streets and tight 90-degree turns within the town, large vehicles and tractor-trailers have been detoured to the town of Hurlock and then return to Federalsburg.

 

The bridge deck replacement was originally scheduled for completion in early spring 2013, but the four-month closure of both lanes of the bridge  enabled the scheduled completion to be   accelerated to  the end of the year. The bridge, which serves the town of Federalsburg, is used by 3,300 motorists each day.

 

The bridge was constructed in 1960 and the new deck replacement will add up to 40 years of life to the bridge.  In addition to the new bridge deck, the entire bridge is being painted and new  curb and railings are being  installed.

 

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 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

 

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