***TRAFFIC ALERT*** MDOT SHA TO REPLACE AGING METAL PIPES UNDER US 50 IN DORCHESTER COUNTY

US 50 sign

US 50 sign

​Motorists Should Expect Traffic Delays During Work Hours 

(September 21, 2022) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will begin a project next week to replace three aging metal culvert pipes that carry Otter Pond Branch under US 50 (Ocean Gateway) near MD 331 (Rhodesdale Vienna Road) in the Vienna area of Dorchester County. The $1.9 million project should be complete by early spring, weather permitting.

Beginning October 11, MDOT SHA will replace the metal pipes, which were originally installed in 1990, with reinforced concrete pipes. Crews will work 10-hour shifts Mondays through Fridays. Crews are permitted to work during the day or at night, depending on the progress of the project. All work will be conducted behind concrete barriers. Motorists should expect lane and shoulder closures, reduced lane widths and lane shifts in both directions of US 50 during construction. 

map of US 50 near MD 331

US 50 project near MD 331

MDOT SHA contractor David A. Bramble, of Chestertown, will use temporary traffic barriers, signs, reflective barrels, and electronic arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone. The project — part of MDOT SHA’s bridge system preservation program that provides reliable structures in a timely manner — will support the safety and mobility of motorists and reduce maintenance costs.

metal culvert pipes under US 50 in Vienna
Metal culvert pipes to be replaced under US 50 in Vienna. 

Beginning October 1, 2022, the Move Over Law in Maryland will require motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals. The expanded law is in place to protect emergency responders and motorists who encounter a roadside emergency.

​​​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 road​s.ma​ryland.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.


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