WCBC

October 26th, 2018 by WCBC Radio

The Hogan Administration announces the start of construction to replace three bridges in Frederick County. The three projects totaling $22 million are part of Governor Larry Hogan’s promise to address the 69 structurally deficient bridges that were identified in 2015. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will replace the MD 355 (Urbana Pike) Bridge over Bennett Creek, the MD 478 (Knoxville Road) Bridge over a branch of the Potomac River and the MD 464 (Point of Rocks Road) Bridge over Little Catoctin Creek.

“Since taking office, our administration has been committed to delivering transformative transportation solutions to Marylanders all across the state,” said Governor Hogan. “These bridge projects will have a critical impact on our state’s economy and provide a more efficient commute for the citizens of Frederick County.”   

The bridges are safe for travel but have reached the end of their reliable service life. MDOT SHA’s contractor, Concrete General Inc. of Gaithersburg, will complete all three projects.

In Urbana, MDOT SHA will replace the MD 355 (Urbana Pike) Bridge over Bennett Creek, which was originally constructed in 1924. The new $13.2 million bridge will be more than three feet higher to enable greater water flow underneath, which will reduce the frequency of flooding. The new bridge will be located approximately 150 north of the existing structure. In addition to the bridge replacement, MDOT SHA will stabilize 2,300 feet of Bennett Creek to prevent erosion and reduce roadway flooding.

MDOT SHA will begin constructing a temporary roadway in November and shift traffic upon its completion. This is necessary to reduce impacts to drivers during construction, as well as provide an area where crews can restore Bennett Creek. There may be occasional single, off-peak lane closures as material and equipment is delivered. The bridge has an average daily traffic of 8,500 and work will be complete late-fall 2020.