(August 21, 2015) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will close the MD 161 (Darlington Road) Bridge over Deer Creek in northern Harford County on Monday and Tuesday, August 24 and 25. The bridge will be closed between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to enable crews to clear debris buildup under the bridge. 

Crews will use a crane to remove large fallen trees and other debris under the bridge to improve drainage.  In the aftermath of rain storms, tree limbs and other debris flow through the water and become lodged against the bridge.  Over time, the buildup clogs drainage and can lead to flooding when it rains. SHA performs this proactive maintenance approximately once every two years.

The detour route uses MD 155 (Level Road), MD 136 (Priestford Road) and US 1 (Conowingo Road). Approximately 6,000 vehicles use Darlington Road each day. Motorists should plan extra travel time during the maintenance project.

In addition to this project, drivers may also encounter mobile or short-term work zones. Always expect the unexpected, pay extra close attention and drive slowly through any work zone. Whether it’s a tree trimming operation or a bridge project, be aware when orange is there: Think Orange (the color of construction equipment and signs), stay alert and slow down. Everyone is at risk. 

Road crews are well into mid-summer construction. Click here for a listing of major SHA construction projects throughout Maryland. For the latest real-time travel information, log onto www.md511.org.