Bay Bridge Westbound Lane Closure To Span Two Years

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Drivers should prepare for traffic concerns this fall when the Maryland Transportation Authority begins a $27 million deck rehabilitation on the westbound span of the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial (Bay) Bridge (U.S. 50/301).

As part of the two-year project, the right lane of the westbound span will close 24/7 from October to April during fall 2019 into spring 2020 and fall 2020 into spring 2021.

“Even though traffic volumes are lowest at the bridge during these months, drivers should expect major delays, even during normal conditions, and especially during holidays, traffic incidents and inclement weather,” said MDTA Executive Director Jim Ports in a statement. “We’re asking our customers for their patience and understanding and to bear with us during this necessary work to preserve this critical connection between Maryland’s shores.”

Beginning after Labor Day and continuing through Sept. 30, the westbound right lane will be closed continuously during weekdays from 9 a.m. Mondays through 6 a.m. Fridays. The long-term 24/7 right lane closure will occur from Oct. 1 through April 16, but will be lifted temporarily during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Then from April 16 through May 20, the westbound right lane again will be closed continuously during weekdays from 9 a.m. Mondays through 6 a.m. Fridays. All lanes will reopen during the summer travel season when traffic volumes significantly increase. The MDTA will repeat the same schedule during fall 2020 into spring 2021.

Two-way traffic operations will NOT go into effect during the 24/7 lane closures because concrete barriers will be in place with reduced lane widths. The MDTA will use two-way traffic for emergencies only. Fully funded by tolls, the MDTA’s $27 million project will not just replace the bridge deck surface of the westbound span right lane, but also includes making deck repairs, sealing the bridge deck and replacing existing lane-use signal gantries and steel rail posts.

For 24/7 Bay Bridge traffic information, call 1-877-BAYSPAN (229-772) or visit baybridge.com.