​Rehabilitated Bridge near Big Pool to Provide Motorists with a Smoother, Safer Ride 

(August 13, 2021) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is finalizing work on the project to rehabilitate the MD 56 bridge deck over I-70 near Big Pool in Washington County, and is scheduled to open the bridge to traffic Monday, August 16. The project is part of Governor Larry Hogan’s $1.97 billion investment in highways and bridges.

“Investing in the repair and upkeep of aging bridges has been a priority for our administration, and is vital to moving people and goods in support of Maryland’s economy,” Governor Larry Hogan said. “Completion of the MD 56 bridge rehabilitation will benefit residents of the area and those who do business in Maryland and our neighbor jurisdictions.”        

The bridge was built in 1964 and had reached the end of its useful service life. Work on the bridge improved the riding surface and enhanced safety features. As part of the project, crews removed and replaced the bridge deck, cleaned and painted the structural steel and repaired abutments and piers. Other features include traffic barriers, signage and pavement markings.       

“MD 56 is a primary route for local residents and commerce, including trucks that rely on this route every day as part of the regional supply chain,” said MDOT Secretary Greg Slater. “This is a project that supports our economy and enhances safety and mobility for those who live, work and visit this beautiful area of Washington County.”       

“Rehabilitating this bridge now will save money on future maintenance,” said MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith. “Thanks to our committed team for helping to keep our bridges safe and in good repair.”       

Work on the $4.5 million project has been performed by Concrete General Inc. of Gaithersburg. Learn more about the project HERE.

MDOT SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on driving and look for reduced speed limits as well as other driving pattern changes. Please drive like you work here and slow down in construction zones. Motorists can dial #77 on their mobile device for roadside assistance.   

Motorists can dial #77 on their mobile device for roadside assistance.

For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, go to Project Portal. Visit our homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.

Editor’s Note

From intersection improvements to widening and new interchange construction, MDOT SHA is investing in projects to enhance the commute and daily travel for millions of Marylanders.  MDOT SHA maintains more than 2,500 bridges and 17,000 miles of non-toll state roads – the interstate, US and state numbered routes in Maryland’s 23 counties.