MARYLAND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY CREWS READY
FOR WINTER STORM
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The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), the agency that finances, owns, operates and maintains the State's eight toll facilities, is prepared for the winter storm predicted to start overnight and continue through tomorrow. MDTA crews are ready for winter weather that could bring dangerous driving conditions to Maryland.
Drive only if it's absolutely necessary. Do not pass snow plows and sanding trucks. Speed limits are based on normal road and weather conditions, not winter road conditions. Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists. Remember bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads will freeze first. Be prepared for possible bridge wind warnings or restrictions. Stay alert and use caution.
On all MDTA bridges, wind warnings and restrictions would be implemented as outlined below:
- Wind Warning (sustained wind speeds or wind gusts of 30-39 mph) operators of house trailers, box trailers, motorcycles, vehicles with roof-mount racks containing cargo or any other vehicle that may be subject to high winds are advised to use caution while traveling across the bridge.
- Wind Restriction I (sustained wind speeds or wind gusts of 40-49 mph) house trailers, empty box trailers or any vehicle that, in the opinion of law-enforcement personnel, may not safely cross the bridge will be prohibited from traveling the bridge. Motorists who are denied passage will be assisted with safely turning around.
- Wind Restriction II (sustained wind speeds or wind gusts exceeding 50 mph) only automobiles, pickup trucks, flatbed trailers, commercial buses and heavy-laden tractor/trailers are permitted to cross the bridge. Tractor-box trailer combinations will not be permitted to cross any bridge if the gross weight is less than 64,000 pounds.
- Traffic Holds/Bridge Closure (sustained wind speeds or wind gusts exceeding 55 mph) In the event of a sudden increase of sustained wind speeds or wind gusts that could jeopardize life or property, theMDTA may elect to discontinue the movement of traffic across the bridge.
As the MDTA prepares for potentially severe weather, it has no immediate plans to close any toll facilities in anticipation of the storm. Any decision to close a toll facility would be based upon current weather and road conditions at a given facility. The MDTA will make every effort to keep all of its facilities open as long as conditions are deemed safe to do so.
To view real-time traffic camera images on MDTA roadways, visit mdta.maryland.gov. Know Before You Go! Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheMDTA. Call 511 or visitMD511.org for statewide travel information.
The MDTA reminds motorists to avoid traveling if possible.