(April 12, 2013) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) advises motorists in Cumberland that the on-ramp from South Mechanic Street to eastbound I-68 will be closed this weekend to allow crews to patch the concrete driving surface of the ramp. The closure will begin at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 12, and the ramp will reopen at 6 a.m. on Monday, April 15.  In the case of inclement weather, SHA will postpone the roadwork and closure.

Drivers should follow detour signs that will direct traffic to use the ramp from Harrison Street to westbound I-68 and proceed to exit 43A (Beall Street), then make a left onto Kelly Road to access the ramp to eastbound I-68.

The multi-day closure is necessary as crews will cut out a large area of concrete, thoroughly clean the area, and then pour new concrete, which requires up to 24 to 36 hours to cure (set and dry).

The patching is part of a $14 million bridge rehabilitation project that also includes repairs, cleaning and painting below the bridge. In addition to the ramp closure, motorists should expect extended single-lane closures on I-68 this spring due to patching on the bridge surface. These closures begin each Sunday night at 8 p.m. and continue around the clock through Friday at noon to allow time for concrete to cure.

SHA’s contractor for the project is Titan Industrial Services Inc. of Baltimore. More information about the project is available at www.bitly.com/crosstownbridge.

Every 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 www.facebook.com/MarylandStateHighwayAdministration.

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