Screen shot from Fox 45 video.The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) announced plans to take a series of steps to shorten the duration of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge rehabilitation project and mitigate the traffic impact.
“My most important responsibility is the safety of Maryland citizens,” said Gov. Larry Hogan during a meeting of the Board of Public Works, according to an MDTA press release. “Not taking action is not an option. But I am demanding that every effort must be taken to complete this project as soon as possible. And I am demanding that all the experts look at every possible solution that is feasible.”
“The safety of Marylanders is our top priority every day, which is exactly why we are moving forward on this urgent project,” said MDTA Executive Director Jim Ports in the press release. “Governor Hogan has directed us to look at every possible solution to expedite the project, and we are confident that these actions will allow us to make these repairs as quickly as we can and limit the impacts on local residents. We especially appreciate the input of the community, including Queen Anne’s County leaders, as we move forward with this project.”
Bridge work will be done during day and night shifts, seven days a week, using multiple crews. The contractor will now work through Thanksgiving week as well. Crews will make repairs simultaneously in multiple work zones in different areas of the bridge. The MDTA and its contractor are also exploring alternate milling methods and overlay materials that may speed up the project further.
