​​(August 18, 2016) – During the week of August 22, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will shift eastbound ​I-70 tr​affic at the I-68 interchange as part of ongoing bridge reconstruction.  Crews will use concrete barriers to create two, 11-foot wide through lanes on eastbound I-70, leaving the construction area in the middle of the roadway.

The work zone and traffic shift will be set up over two nights, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.  The Maryland State Police will be onsite to assist with traffic control.  During the overnight traffic shift, eastbound I-68 motorists will be detoured through Hancock using MD 144 (East Main Street).  Additionally, one of the two lanes may need to be closed on I-68 and/or I-70 as crews set up barriers and signs.

“Motorists will need to slow down and use extreme caution when traveling through the ‘split’ work zone,” said District 6 Engineer Anthony Crawford.  “We expect to have this phase of work complete by Thanksgiving, when the contractor will remove the work zone to prepare for winter. Work on the bridge will resume spring 2017.”

The $4.8 million project includes a new deck (riding surface), new concrete walls and supports, and new steel beams.  Work will be complete by summer 2017, weather permitting.

For additional information about the construction of the new bridge please click here.

 

 

The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration reminds drivers to adhere to the posted speed limits and remain alert while driving.  With the work occurring during the weekend, drivers should plan for extra travel time to reach their destinations.  Those who have questions about SHA projects in Washington County may call the SHA District 6 Office at 301-729-8400, toll-free at 1-800-760-7138 or send email to shadistrict6@sha.state.md.us.