(August 18, 2014) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will reopen the US 219 (Garrett Highway) Bridge over Cherry Creek near Oakland, Garrett County by 5 p.m. today following a bridge replacement project.  US 219 has been closed and detoured since June 18 and the re-opening is earlier than originally expected.

 

“Closing US 219 enabled crews to remove the old bridge and construct the new one before the start of the new school year,” said Anthony Crawford, SHA District Engineer for Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties. “We thank the traveling public for their patience during the detour, which helped shorten the duration of the construction project.”

 

The new bridge is 55-feet long and 35-feet wide and completely replaces the previous structure, built in 1922. Crews will continue to work on the bridge replacement project during off peak hours with single lane closures by way of a flagging operation. The entire project should be completed early fall, weather permitting.  SHA’s contractor for the $2 million is Charles J. Merlo, Inc. of Mineral Spring, Pa.