​Public Invited to Learn More About the Project and Provide Feedback 

(June 8, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will host a public meeting from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a formal presentation at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, at Liberty High School, 5855 Bartholow Road, Eldersburg, to share information about the upcoming project to replace the bridge decks on the two MD 26 (Liberty Road) bridges over the Liberty Reservoir in Carroll County.

Both bridges were originally built in 1954 and had deck replacements in 1982. While the two bridge decks were deemed safe in recent inspections, they require replacement to support transportation safety, mobility and economic growth in this area. The project is currently in the design stage, with construction anticipated to start in 2028. 

MD 26 bridges project and meeting location

The public meeting is an opportunity for residents, businesses and commuters to learn more about the project and traffic maintenance options. The meeting will include a formal presentation from State Highway Administration representatives at 6 p.m. to provide an overview of the project and discuss important milestones, timelines and impacts. After the presentation, the project team will be available to listen to your feedback and answer project-related questions. Project materials will be available on the MD 26 Bridges over Liberty Reservoir Project Portal after the meeting.

Those requiring assistance to participate in the open house, including interpreter needs for hearing/speech difficulties or assistance with the English language, may email [email protected] before the event. Please indicate the desired language in the subject line. Maryland Relay Service can assist teletype users at 7-1-1.

Questions about the public meeting or general inquiries can be directed to the Project Manager, Christopher Arendt, P.E. at [email protected] or District 7 Community Relations Manager, Elizabeth Harris at [email protected].

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.​