(February 18, 2014) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) will perform routine maintenance requiring short-term openings of the MD 331 Dover Bridge over the Choptank River on Monday, February 24, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., weather permitting.  The brief closures of the bridge will last no longer than those needed for an average vessel to pass through the open swing span, which vary between five to 15 minutes.

SHA’s contractor, Covington Machine and Welding, Inc. of Annapolis, will perform the inspection and maintenance.  The routine maintenance includes: greasing the bridge locks; testing the opening and closing of the bridge swing span; raising and lowering the traffic gates; checking  traffic and navigational lights; and checking  hydraulic oil levels for bridge motors.

If inclement weather prevents the work as originally planned, it will be rescheduled for the earliest possible weekday date that weather permits.  Anyone with questions about the project may contact the SHA District 2 Office at 1-800-637-9740.

As crews strive to keep work zones safe, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving behavior 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!