(Sept. 5, 2012) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) is moving forward with a bridge deck replacement project on the westbound US 50 (Ocean Gateway) Bridge over US 301 (Blue Star Memorial Highway) at the end of September.  This project, which is expected to be completed in spring 2013 weather permitting, will cause significant delays for motorists traveling west toward the Bay Bridge from Eastern Shore destinations.

“SHA engineers considered closing the ramp during construction,” said Melinda Peters, SHA Administrator, “but the timetable is scheduled to coincide with “off-peak” months for beach traffic on US 50 so the project will be ready before the start of another summer.”

Motorists traveling on the westbound US 50 Bridge crossing over US 301 in Queenstown should plan ahead to encounter ramp lane closures beginning, Monday, September 24, for seven months. 

The bridge was constructed in 1950 and the upgrade project includes an entirely new deck, resurfacing, replacing corroded steel, and maintenance and cleaning the brick walls adjacent to the travel lanes.  

One lane of westbound US 50 will remain open during construction and drivers will be directed through the project area with temporary concrete barriers.  SHA will periodically close westbound US 50 over US 301 between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for up to 15 minutes to remove and install steel beams.  SHA crews will also use variable message signs, cones and barrels to guide motorists through the work zone.

Motorists on southbound US 301 should expect single lane closures Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Motorists along northbound US 301 may expect some infrequent lane closures to occur.  If there is a temporary full closure of northbound US 301 during some portions of the work, SHA will establish a detour for motorists.

SHA awarded the $2.8 million bridge deck replacement contract to Corman Construction, Inc., of Annapolis Junction, MD.  While SHA and its transportation partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.  Slow down and don’t follow too closely.   Safer driving.  Safer work  zones.  For everyone!

Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information! Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org  for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely – Maryland law prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.  For motorists traveling west toward the Bay Bridge, try 511’s news “Reach the Beach” feature by simply saying – “Reach the Beach.”  This service provides real-time travel data from points west and east between the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Eastern Shore Destinations or to the bridge.

Those who travel within the project area are encouraged to learn more about the project.

•Information about the project can be accessed on the web at: www.roads.maryland.gov projects & studies / SHA Projects Page; click on county map; construction; major projects; and finally: 1) US 50 Ocean Gateway.

•Motorists can follow us on Twitter @MDSHA, or get free traveler information by calling 511 or 1-855-GOMD511.

 

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