OCEAN CITY, Md.- The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) has announced its plans to continue long-term repairs on the US 50 (Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge) over Sinepuxent Bay in Ocean City, Worcester County. Commencing on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, this undertaking will entail round-the-clock work on the bridge's machinery room areas and will necessitate lane closures, including sidewalk and marine channel closures. Weather permitting, the repair work is anticipated to conclude by March 2.
The US 50 bridge in Ocean City has been a vital transportation link, connecting the eastern and western shores of Maryland. The repair efforts aim to enhance the bridge's structural integrity and ensure its long-term safety and functionality.
During the repair period, two eastbound lanes and the eastbound sidewalk of the bridge will be closed to facilitate a secure work zone. However, two-way traffic will be maintained using the westbound lanes of the bridge, ensuring minimal disruption to commuters.
Covington Machine and Welding, the contractor responsible for the repairs, will employ concrete barriers, barrels, and cones to guide motorists safely through the work zone. Arrow panels and Variable Message Signs (VMS) boards positioned in advance of the work zone will provide early warnings to drivers about closures and changing traffic patterns.
For maritime traffic, the marine channel will be temporarily blocked with construction barges and closed to all vessels. This closure is necessary to facilitate the installation of new structural components of the bridge. Vessels not requiring the draw span to be opened will have the option to pass under adjacent spans. The MDOT SHA is working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities to establish a work schedule that minimizes disruptions to marine traffic.
For the latest updates and information related to this project, residents and travelers are encouraged to visit the project portal. Additionally, motorists in need of roadside assistance can dial #77 on their mobile devices.
To stay informed about all major State Highway Administration projects, please visit the project portal or the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For real-time traffic conditions, you can access md511.maryland.gov.