I-495 sign
Motorists Can Expect Periodic Drawbridge Openings That Will Result in Temporary Traffic Stops on Capital Beltway
(September 18, 2023) –The State Highway Administration will perform routine maintenance overnight Thursday, September 21 on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge (I-95/I-495/Capital Beltway) in Prince George’s County. Weather permitting, the work will begin at 11 p.m. Thursday, and is expected to be completed by 5 a.m. on Friday, September 22.
A single northbound lane closure will be in effect for maintenance work on the barrier net. This closure will be in effect prior to the drawbridge opening. The closure will begin at 9 p.m. and will conclude before the drawbridge opening.
During the maintenance work period, there will be brief, periodic openings of the drawbridge, resulting in full temporary stops in both directions of the Capital Beltway. These stops are expected to be 15 to 20 minutes in length and will occur several times overnight. This routine maintenance is necessary for the safe and reliable operation of the drawbridge.
Motorists are advised to allow extra driving time overnight to accommodate the delays. The State Highway Administration understands this work will inconvenience some travelers and asks all motorists to please stay alert and be patient as you pass through the area.
For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to
Project Portal, or visit the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to
md511.maryland.gov.