(January 19, 2010) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) has deployed crews to assess a water main break affecting the outer loop of I-695 between south of Wilkens Avenue and the exit to I-95. SHA maintenance and emergency response crews are on the scene and have closed the three left lanes of the outer loop between Wilkens Avenue and I-95.

While two right lanes are currently open, major delays extend along the outer loop of I-695 between Wilkens Avenue and I-70, a distance of approximately four to five miles. Motorists are urged to avoid the area. If traveling along I-70, take US 29 to MD 100 to I-95 back to I-695. If traveling along mainline I-695 consider taking I-70 to US 29.

The 12-inch water main crossing underneath the Baltimore Beltway has been identified as belonging to Baltimore City. Now that the water has been turned off, damages to the water main will be assessed, then repaired. Once this is completed, crews will repair the roadway surface. At this time, it is too early to discern the extent of damage to the road. SHA anticipates the closure will extend at least through the evening rush hour period.

View the incident on a live traffic camera feed by logging onto www.roads.maryland.gov.

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