(August 23, 2011) – Following this afternoon’s earthquake, Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) and Maryland Transportation Authority engineers continue proactive inspection of bridges, prioritizing larger and taller structures. 

 

SHA has not received any reports of damage.  Additionally, maintenance crews inspected roads across the state, looking for any unusual bumps or depressions on SHA road surfaces.  Crews have also visually inspected traffic signal poles, light poles, overhead sign structures and utilities with no damage reported.

 

"SHA owns and maintains more than 2,500 bridges and 17,000 miles of highways.  We are being conservative and proactive to confirm the integrity and safety of the structures across the state,” said Acting SHA Administrator Darrell B. Mobley.  “Please stay alert and use extra caution this evening as inspection personnel will be out as a precaution.”

All MDTA facilities are open to traffic.  The Nice Bridge (US 301) was closed as a precautionary measure from approximately 1:55 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.

 

MdTA operations staff have assessed all facilities and have no indication any damage was incurred.  Inspection teams will be performing more thorough inspections on its facilities.  Traffic drags and periodic, limited lane closures will be in effect for inspectors throughout the night.

All facilities are expected to return to normal operation by rush hour Wednesday.

 

Drivers are encouraged to use 511 to plan their travel routes this evening.  Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information!  Call 511 or visit: www. md511.org for current travel information.  Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website.
 
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