March 27th, 2024 by WCBC Radio

***UPDATED MAJOR TRAFFIC ALERT*** 

DETOURS IN PLACE FOLLOWING COLLAPSE OF INTERSTATE 695 BRIDGE OVER THE PATAPSCO RIVER (FRANCIS SCOTT KEY BRIDGE)  

Motorists Should Expect Heavy Traffic, and Avoid I-695 in Southeastern Baltimore County;
Increased Traffic Volumes on I-695 and Other Parallel Routes 

(March 26, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is assisting the Maryland Transportation Authority with traffic control related to the collapse of the I-695 bridge over the Patapsco River (Francis Scott Key Bridge). Drivers are encouraged to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice. 

The outer loop I-695 closure has shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Drivers should use I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.