The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) has commenced work on a $6.8 million project to replace the MD 5 (Point Lookout Road) bridge over Hilton Run in St. Mary’s County. The project, which aims to address the aging infrastructure of the 1936-built bridge, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, provided weather conditions remain favorable.
The 87-year-old bridge remains safe for travel, but according to MDOT SHA, it is nearing the end of its serviceable lifespan. The replacement project will not only address the bridge’s structural needs but also upgrade the surrounding area to enhance safety and traffic flow.
Key elements of the project include the following:
- Removal and replacement of the existing bridge structure.
- Reconstruction of approximately 1,055 feet of roadway leading to the new bridge.
- Installation of traffic barriers and a new stormwater management facility.
- Updates to signage, pavement markings, and landscaping.
The new bridge will retain two lanes, similar to the current structure, but will feature wider shoulders to improve safety and accommodate various types of vehicles.
This bridge replacement is part of MDOT SHA’s system preservation program, designed to ensure the continued safety and mobility of Maryland travelers while maintaining critical elements of the state’s transportation network.
Construction Plans and Traffic Management
During the initial weeks of construction, crews will be implementing daytime flagging operations to guide traffic through the work zone. This temporary measure will allow workers to deliver and install the necessary equipment. As the project progresses, a temporary signal will be installed to regulate traffic flow, alternating vehicles through a single lane for the duration of the construction phase.
Contractor Martins Construction Corporation, based in Falls Church, Virginia, has been selected to carry out the construction. The project will be completed in stages, with the goal of minimizing disruption during peak travel hours. To ensure the safety of both the workforce and motorists, crews will work behind concrete barriers and adjust work schedules as needed to align with the project timeline.
While the work is expected to cause some traffic delays, MDOT SHA is asking for the public’s patience throughout the construction period. In a statement, the agency emphasized the importance of safety in work zones, advising drivers to stay alert and focused, reduce their speed, and be mindful of changing traffic patterns.
“Drivers are urged to slow down and move over when driving through work zones. It’s the law,” stated MDOT SHA, adding that motorists requiring assistance can dial #77 on their mobile devices for help.
Resources for Motorists
For those seeking more information on the MD 5 bridge replacement project, MDOT SHA has provided an online resource. Drivers can visit the Project Portal at roads.maryland.gov for a list of all major State Highway Administration projects. Additionally, real-time traffic conditions can be viewed on the MDOT SHA’s traffic site at md511.maryland.gov.
With the construction scheduled to continue until the end of 2025, MDOT SHA will provide regular updates on the progress of the project. The agency will also maintain communication with local residents and businesses to keep them informed about any significant changes or impacts caused by the ongoing construction.
This project represents a critical investment in the region’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring the continued safety and mobility of travelers on MD 5 for years to come.
