The temporary closure is part of a project to rehabilitate the “Crosstown Bridge,” which carries I-68 over downtown Cumberland, and will allow crews to install a construction platform over the ramp. The construction platform will be suspended from the bridge and will be used while crews sandblast and paint the underside of the bridge.

Motorists should follow the posted detour, which will use exit 43A (Beall Street) to Kelly Road and direct motorists back onto I-68 headed east. The eastbound I-68 exit 43B ramp will remain open.

The ramp will be closed again this spring during the actual sandblasting and painting, and the platform area will be enclosed in a system of tarps during the work.

Installing platforms is the first step in the two-year, $14 million bridge rehabilitation project, which also includes work on the MD 51 bridge over CSX Railroad and Canal Parkway. SHA’s contractor for the project is Titan Industrial Service, Inc., of Baltimore. For more information and updates throughout the project, visit www.bitly.com/crosstownbridge.

While SHA and its partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert – look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Slow down and don't follow too closely. Safer Driving. Safer Work Zones. For everyone!

Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information! Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org  for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely – Maryland law prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

SHA is making it easy to get safety tips and information on the go through Twitter @MDSHA and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/MarylandStateHighwayAdministration.

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