EXPECT MAJOR DELAYS; Motorists Will be Detoured to MD 648 (Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard) to I-695

(July 14, 2022) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will be closing lanes on northbound I-97 at exit 16/MD 648 (Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard). All traffic will be detoured onto MD 648. Motorists are encouraged to consider MD 100 as an alternate route.  

The closure is necessary to begin emergency repairs on a void under the pavement.  

​MDOT SHA has re-timed traffic signals on MD 648 to provide additional green time on the mainline to mitigate the extra vehicle traffic volumes. Additionally, MDOT SHA has activated overhead message signs well in advance of the work.  

The void was created by a failed drainage pipe under I-97 due to recent heavy rainfall. There is no current estimate of when the ramp lanes will reopen. Motorists are strongly encouraged to monitor CHA​RT cameras​ and MDOT SHA social media for updates throughout the night. 

MDOT SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers.  Please drive like you work here and stay alert, focus on driving, and look for reduced speed limits as well as other driving pattern changes.

Motorists in need may 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.