​(May 1, 2017) – This week, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will begin replacing an aging culvert (small structure) that carries a branch of St. James Run under MD 63 (Spielman Road) in Fairplay.  Weather permitting, the $1.5 million project will be complete mid-fall.

Built in the 1800’s, the structure has outlived its useful service life and needs replacement.  Before the complete traffic closure, crews will perform preliminary work such as clearing the area, preparing the stream diversion system and installing detour signs.

On June 5, crews from MDOT SHA’s contractor, C. William Hetzer, Inc. of Hagerstown, will close and detour MD 63 until August 14 to remove the deteriorated stone arch culvert and install a new, wider pre-stressed concrete slab panel bridge. 

Crews will also pave the bridge approaches and install guardrail, signs, and pavement markings. The road will be open to traffic prior to the beginning of the new school year.

Approximately 1,200 motorists use this section of MD 63 each day.  Motorists will be directed to use MD 65 (Sharpsburg Pike) to MD 68 (Lappans Road) and MD 632 (Downsville Pike) to navigate the detour route. 

While SHA and its transportation 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 and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.  Slow down and don’t follow too closely. Work Zone Safety is in Your Hands.

Maryland drivers can also know before they go by calling 511 or visiting www.md511.org for live traffic updates, including construction delays and lane closures. Those with questions may contact MDOT SHA’s District 6 office at 301-729-8400, toll-free at 1-800-760-7138 or send email to shadistrict6@sha.state.md.us.