First Stage Underway of Project to Stabilize Creek Embankments,Enhance Safety Near Rocks State Park
(January 11, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is beginning construction on a $9.5 million project to improve and protect a section of MD 24 (Rocks Road) extending from 700 feet south of Sharon Road to 1,700 feet north of Ferncliff Lane near Rocks State Park in Harford County.
To stabilize the embankments and protect the roadway against erosion, crews will place diversion devices in the stream to shift a section of Deer Creek about 30 feet to the east and will reconstruct a section of the roadway. The work also includes resurfacing, landscaping and installation of a new guardrail along the northbound side of MD 24. The project is expected to be complete in 2025, weather permitting.
During the first stage of construction, MD 24 will remain open to traffic as crews remove trees and other landscape features along the northbound side of the roadway, but the work may require intermittent flagging operations to regulate two-way traffic on MD 24, as necessary.
Project map
In the final stage of construction, MD 24 will be temporarily closed and a detour will be in place for through traffic. During this stage, this section of MD 24 will be inaccessible in both directions to maximize safe work zone conditions and ensure efficient construction time. The State Highway Administration will provide advanced notice of the road closure, detailing the start date and detour route (see map). Visitors to
Rocks State Park are advised to avoid the work zone along Deer Creek during both phases of the project.
Contractor Allan Myers MD Inc. of Fallston, will perform the work. Learn more about the
MD 24 slope protection project here.
The State Highway Administration understands flagging operations, lane closures and detours can be an inconvenience, and appreciates customers’ patience as this necessary work is completed. Drivers are asked to stay alert, stay focused, look for reduced speed limits as well as driving pattern changes and slow down in construction zones. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile devices for roadside assistance.
Customers with questions about the MD 24 slope protection project or other construction projects on state-maintained roads in Harford County may call the State Highway Administration District 4 Office - Construction Division at 410-229-2300 or toll-free at 1-866-998-0367.
For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to
Project Portal. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to
md511.maryland.gov.