Part of Interstate 70 Closed for Patapsco River Bridge Repair

Due to a questionable beam on the Patapsco River Bridge, the State Highway Administration (SHA) said it closed part of Interstate 70 for the weekend.

"SHA bridge inspectors discovered an issue with the beam that requires immediate attention," SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters said. "SHA is erring on the side of caution and closing the bridge until repairs can be initiated. We are asking motorists for patience as emergency repairs are made."

I-70 west was closed between Interstate 695 and the Patapsco River Bridge (Howard/Baltimore county line) as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, and officials said the closure may continue for the rest of the weekend, possibly until 5 a.m. Monday.

Ramps to access westbound I-70 will be closed, according to the SHA.

Alternate routes include US 40 west/Baltimore National Pike or Route 26 west/Liberty Road, according to the SHA, which reported that it was adjusting traffic signals on both roads to accommodate an influx of travelers.