The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners this week weighed in on the severe traffic backups caused by a $27 million deck rehabilitation construction project on Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The right lane of the westbound span is closed from October to April, with additional closures Monday through Friday in May.
In order to reduce traffic congestion during the project, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has authorized two-way operations on the westbound span so traffic can move in both directions at reduced speeds, providing three lanes eastbound and one westbound. But the County says two-way traffic only exacerbates traffic bottlenecks, and is calling on MDTA to discontinue contraflow operations.
Large trucks, buses, campers, and vehicles pulling trailers are banned from crossing during two-way traffic operations. Those vehicles are relegated to County roads, making it difficult for public safety agencies to respond to emergencies.
“Our emergency services can’t get through. They’ve got those lanes closed you’ve got traffic in the other lanes now you’ve got tractor-trailers parked on the shoulder,” Commissioner Jim Moran said. “There is no safe access for Queen Annes County and we are one of two counties in the state without a hospital.”
According to a Queen Anne’s County press release:
Want to understand the behind the scenes talks between the QAC Commissioners and state agencies regarding construction and lane closures on the Bay Bridge? Listen to Commissioner Jim Moran who lays out all of the facts and issues to date. Watch the Oct. 8th Commissions meeting, the bridge discussion is at the beginning. Thanks @QACTV.
Visit the Queen Anne’s County website for more information.
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