Historic Bridge in Kingsville Gets Boost from $1.6 Million Grant

A Kingsville landmark will get some TLC this spring, thanks to a $1.6 million grant from the National Historic Covered Bridge Preservation Program.

The Jericho Covered Bridge, which was built in 1865, will undergo a preservation project starting in March, according to Baltimore County Councilman David Marks.

The bridge that connects Baltimore and Harford counties over Little Gunpowder Falls is “one of the most distinctive landmarks in Kingsville,” according to a statement from Marks, who said the preservation project aims to maintain the structure’s historic look and prolong its lifespan.

The Jericho Covered Bridge was originally built in 1865 to provide a free crossing over the Little Gunpowder River, allowing people to get around tolls on the nearby Jerusalem Pike or Joppa Rolling Road, according to the Maryland Historical Trust.

During the upcoming preservation project, traffic will be detoured from Jericho Road to Jerusalem Road, Joppa Road, Franklinville Road and Vinegar Hill Road, according to Marks. The detour will be clearly marked, Marks said.

The renovations should prolong the life of the 86-foot span and repair insect damage, according to Marks.

The project calls for installing a security camera, Marks said. A fire retardant and anti-graffiti coat will be applied to the bridge’s timbers to protect it as well, he added; otherwise, all repairs will be done to keep the bridge looking exactly as it is.

Work is anticipated to begin in March.

As of Jan. 21, Marks said the construction contract was in the process of being awarded.

The contractor will most likely be permitted to move forward in March, weather-permitting, according to Marks.

Photo Credit: Councilman David Marks