Md. Bridges Closed; Authorities Reduce Speed Limit On Md. Highways, Interstates Due To High Wind Gusts
BALTIMORE (WJZ/AP)-- The Bay Bridge, Key Bridge and Hatem Bridge have been closed. The Tydings Bridge will close shortly. The Nice Bridge is under wind restrictions. State authorities have reduced the speed limit on Maryland interstates and highways to 45 miles per hour.
The State Highway Administration (SHA), Maryland State Police (MSP) and Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) will be enforcing this speed limit effectively immediately and expected to be in effect until the next 24-36 hours. The speed limit also applies to first responders, utility crews and other essential personnel.
The agencies still urge residents to stay indoors and head out only if there is an emergency.
"By reducing speed limit, our goal is to keep our emergency responders safe. For all members of the general public, we can't stress enough the importance of staying off the roads as this unprecedented storm strikes Maryland," said Maryland State Highway Administrator Melinda B. Peters. "Stay home. There are more than 12,000 people responding along state and toll roadways. By staying home you allow them, utility crews and police to do their jobs."
For more information, call 511, 1-855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org and www.traffic.maryland.gov.
Related Story: MTA Suspends Bus & Train Service On Monday; BWI Delaying & Canceling Flights Due To Hurricane Sandy
Baltimore City has announced a mandatory travel restricton starting at 6 p.m. until noon on Tuesday.
MTA has suspended all service on Tuesday because of Hurricane Sandy. The service suspension is the second day in a row due to the hurricane.
There will be no local bus, Metro subway, light rail, MARC train, commuter bus or mobility/Paratransit service.
Some local bus and subway service could resume Tuesday depending on the weather, equipment and road conditions.
