The bridge on MD 5 (Point Lookout Road) over Eastern Branch is scheduled for replacement. Originally constructed in 1936, the bridge is nearing the end of its useful service life. The most significant deterioration has occurred in the concrete bridge deck, which has been paved with asphalt, temporarily improving the smoothness of the riding surface. The new bridge will provide wider shoulders to match those on the approach roadways on either side. Replacing the structurally deficient bridge will save money on future maintenance and support safety and mobility as part of SHA’s bridge system preservation program.
Several alternates for maintaining traffic along MD 5 during construction were considered, including a complete detour of MD 5 or alternating one lane of traffic across the bridge with a temporary traffic signal system. Due to the volume of traffic on this structure and the limited number of alternate routes in the project area, it was determined that maintaining both lanes of traffic was the only viable option to meet the existing traffic demands. Both lanes of traffic along MD 5 will be maintained during construction, while the new bridge is constructed in stages along a new alignment to the north. The minimal impacts to traffic will be limited to off-peak times when the contractor is required to tie the new roadway into the existing alignment.
Construction is scheduled to begin in fall of 2014. SHA will make every effort to complete this project as quickly as possible while minimizing impacts to local residents and motorists. Based on the scope of the work and experience on similar projects, it is anticipated that the project will take up to a year to complete, weather permitting.