Traffic Delays on Westbound Bay Bridge; Officials Urge Drivers to Wait

UPDATED at 6 p.m.

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Massive traffic backups were reported Monday evening as drivers try to make the westbound trek across the Bay Bridge from the Eastern Shore, said state officials.

At about 5 p.m. the Maryland Transportation Authority said westbound delays were about 16 miles before the Bay Bridge and urged drivers to wait before getting on the highway. At 5:30 p.m. the heavy traffic returning from the show had created westbound US 50 delays before MD 404. Three lanes of traffic are open westbound to handle the holiday weekend surge.

The BayBridge.com website many travelers use to view bridge traffic cameras crashed Monday; it was operating again about 3 p.m. You can use the state’s CHART site to find live traffic cameras around the state.

State authorities also suggest drivers check on travel conditions by calling 1-877-BAYSPAN (229-7726).

To avoid major traffic delays, drivers should hit the road in the late evening. The MDTA says the best time to travel the Bay Bridge is after 10 p.m. on Memorial Day.

Maryland's free travel advisory service can also be found online at md511.org.  The 511 service also offers travel updates directly by email and text.

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This weekend, state highway officials expect 377,000 vehicles to cross the Bay Bridge.

“With gasoline prices lower than last year, more people may choose to drive for a weakened getaway, increasing the chances of heavy traffic and delays,” said SHA Administrator Gregory Johnson. “We urge drivers to leave at off-peak times, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and plan your route with 511.”

SEE ALSO: Passersby Talk to Suicidal Man Rescued from Bay Bridge: Update

The State Highway Administration has suspended all non-emergency lane closures and shoulder work associated with construction until Tuesday, May 31, to help ease traffic congestion, and added emergency patrols to high-volume areas.  The extra patrols rapidly respond to disabled vehicles, crashes or other incidents that create traffic problems.  

• Check traffic conditions before you hit the road:
• Call 1-877-BAYSPAN (229-7726) for 24/7 Bay Bridge traffic conditions.
• Visit baybridge.com to view traffic cameras and to sign up for email alerts.
• Follow the MDTA at twitter.com/TheMDTA and facebook.com/TheMDTA.
• Ease your travel with E-ZPass. Visit ezpassmd.com to enroll online and for a list of E-ZPass “On the Go” retail locations.
• Know Before You Go - To view traffic cameras on MDTA roadways, visit mdta.maryland.gov. Call 511 or visit MD511.org for statewide travel information.