​Five-Month Closure/Detour Near Livingston Road, Increases Work Zone Safety Conditions; Motorists Encouraged to Plan Ahead for Additional Travel Time 

(May 19, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is beginning construction on a $5.6​ million culvert replacement project along MD 225 (Hawthorne Road) at the roadway crossing over a branch of Mattawoman Creek in Charles County. 

To expedite the project, State Highway Administration will close a section of MD 225 and detour motorists for approximately five months. The detour is expected to begin on Thursday, June 18, after the evening rush hour, weather permitting.

The closure will take place on MD 225 between east of the Indian Head Rail Trail and just west of the Livingston Road intersection. The detour route will direct northbound and southbound motorists to use MD 224 (Livingston Road), MD 227 (Livingston Road), and MD 210 (Indian Head Highway). Portable variable message signs will announce the closure time.  

MD 225 Culvert Replacement Detour Map

Originally constructed in 1951, the three aging metal culverts will be replaced. The work will also include reconstruction and resurfacing of the roadway crossing once the larger reinforced-concrete culverts are installed. Initial traffic impacts will include daytime flagging operations or shoulder closures as crews perform initial project activities, including equipment and materials delivery, pavement marking upgrades, test-pitting and sign installation, in preparation for the temporary MD 225 closure.

Temporary traffic signs, concrete barriers and barrels will guide drivers along the signed detour route for a distance of nine miles. Planning for additional travel time is strongly encouraged. State Highway Administration will make every effort to complete this project as quickly as possible while minimizing impacts to residents, businesses and motorists.

Given the existing roadway’s narrow width and the confined work area caused by the waterway and limited right-of-way, temporarily closing MD 225 will improve safe work zone conditions and ensure efficient construction time. Contractor FLB Contractors, Inc. of Clinton will perform the work. The contractor will use concrete barriers to block off the work area. 

For project updates, visit the MD 225 Culvert Replacement Project Portal. State Highway Administration will continue its coordination with local agencies and stakeholders while this project is underway. Customers may contact the District 5 Office at 410-841-1000 or 800-331-5603 for additional information.

The State Highway Administration appreciates customers’ patience during construction as we work to improve Maryland’s transportation system. Drivers are asked to stay alert and focused and be aware of reduced speed limits and driving patterns. Slow down and move over in work zones. It’s the law. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile devices for assistance.   

This project is consistent with the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Serious About Safety initiative, a department-wide commitment to advance improvements that drive safety goals and save lives.​