On Tuesday, the old Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas Middleton Bridge in Maryland began the dismantling process with crews working to take the old structure down.
The 1.9 mile structure opened in 1940, and connected Southern Maryland to Virginia.
In October 2022, the new bridge built adjacent to the old structure opened, a year ahead of schedule. It rises 135 feet above the Potomac River, carrying about 18,000 vehicles daily on U.S. Route 301.
According to Maryland officials, the new bridge is safer and wider than the old structure. The old bridge only had 2 lanes. The new structure has a concrete median that separates opposing traffic, preventing head-on collisions.
All-electronic tolling already in place eliminates lines approaching the bridge, the state said.
Cycling groups sought court action to stop the demolition of the old span in favor of a bike path. A day before the new bridge opened, a federal judge ruled demolition could proceed.
According to Maryland officials, materials from the demolished bridge will be used to create an artificial fish reef.
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Source: WBALTV.com
