Section of US 50 to be Closed and Detoured on June 16

(May 5, 2017) – Next week, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is beginning a project to replace an aging culvert (small structure) that carries a branch of the Youghiogheny River under US 50 (George Washington Highway) in Redhouse. Weather permitting, the $1.3 million project will be complete late-fall.

The 90-year-old structure has outlived its useful service life and needs replacement.  Before the summer closure, crews will perform preliminary work such as clearing the work area, preparing the stream diversion system and installing detour signs.

On June 16, crews from MDOT SHA’s contractor, Beitzel Corporation of Grantsville, will tentatively close and detour US 50 until August 23 to remove the deteriorated concrete culvert and install a new pre-stressed concrete slab panel bridge. Crews will also pave the bridge approaches and install guardrail, the road will be re-opened to traffic prior to the beginning of the new school year.

 

Approximately 1,300 motorists use this section of US 50 each day.  Motorists will be directed to use Ben DeWitt Road and US 219 to navigate the detour route. 

 

 

(SHA photo:  The US 50 culvert under branch of the Youghiogheny River is being replaced.)

 

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.