The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) will hold a public open house later this month to share details about an upcoming maintenance project on the historic drawbridge over the Pocomoke River.
The open house is scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Pocomoke Middle School, located at 800 8th Street in Pocomoke City.
According to SHA, the project involves cleaning and painting the steel components of the bridge, which was originally built in 1921. The maintenance work is intended to prevent corrosion of the bridge’s steel elements and to improve its overall appearance. SHA notes that without periodic maintenance, deterioration of steel components could occur.
The open house will provide attendees an opportunity to view maps and displays highlighting the proposed improvements. SHA representatives will be available throughout the event to answer project-related questions and to listen to public feedback. There will be no formal presentation, and residents may arrive at any time during the two-hour window to review materials at their own pace.
SHA states that public feedback collected during the open house may be used to help improve and advance the project.
As outlined in project materials, the maintenance work will require the bridge to remain in its full open position, making it infeasible to allow vehicle traffic during construction. A detour will be implemented to allow crews to work safely and efficiently. According to their flyer, emergency services and public officials have been notified of the planned traffic changes.
The detour is expected to remain in effect for approximately 60 days, weather permitting, and would direct northbound and southbound motorists to MD 364 (Market Street), US 13 (Ocean Highway), MD 250A (Old Virginia Road), and US 13 Business (Market Street).
Marine traffic on the Pocomoke River will be maintained throughout the project, as keeping the bridge open will allow vessels to pass during the entire construction period. SHA indicates the bridge channel may be narrowed slightly during work due to the containment system used while cleaning and painting.
Project materials state that the detour is expected to begin after Labor Day and remain in place for approximately two months.
