(July 14, 2014) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) will make emergency repairs to the hydraulic system of the MD 213 Drawbridge over the Sassafras River for  three consecutive nights between 10 p.m. and  6 a.m., from Tuesday, June 15 through Thursday, June 17, weather permitting.  The draw span will not be open to water vessels during the bridge work and mariners should use extreme caution when transiting under the bridge.

Only one shoulder of the bridge will be closed during the nighttime work therefore motor vehicle traffic will not be impacted. The work includes replacing the main feed lines for the bridge’s hydraulic system connecting the bridge tender house to the structure’s movable machinery. No detours will be required during the bridge repairs.

The cost of the repairs is estimated at $45,000 and is part of an existing maintenance contract. The bridge work will be conducted by Covington Machine and Welding, Inc. of Annapolis and Baltimore Hydraulics, Inc.  This bridge opens approximately 3,200 times per year so mariners are encouraged to plan ahead.

If inclement weather prevents the work to proceed as originally planned, it will be rescheduled for the earliest possible weekday date that weather permits. Anyone with questions about the project may contact the SHA District 2 Office at 1-800-637-9740.

As crews strive to keep work zones safe, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving behavior to help prevent crashes. Stay alert – 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!