Maryland Transit Administration officials have shared additional information on the status of the delayed Spring Street Bridge construction in downtown Silver Spring.
We reported earlier this week that the bridge will remain closed until the end of 2025 due to delays in its construction, which began last summer as part of the Maryland Purple Line light rail project.
During the extended closure, crews will complete the demolition of the bridge abutments and construct the new bridge, with daytime piling operations and overnight work to accommodate CSX trains.
Traffic detours and Ride On bus route changes implemented when the bridge closed last June will remain in effect.
“The Spring Street Bridge in Silver Spring will be closed through 2025. During this time, crews will finish the demolition of the bridge abutments and the construction of the new bridge. The foundation work includes daytime piling operations for the bridge foundations. The detour attached will be implemented during the closure. Please follow on-site signage. This operation may require overnight work to meet the schedule and to accommodate CSX trains.”
MTA Communications Director Kathryn Lamb issued a statement this morning via email to clarify that the delays are due to the relocation of overhead utilities and the construction of the bridge’s new foundation, which involves extensive excavation.
A critical component of the Spring Street Bridge construction is relocation of overhead utilities. This requires coordination with seven utility companies as well as with CSX and WMATA to gain access to areas above the tracks. As CSX freight and MARC Commuter trains approach the area, CSX flaggers must halt construction work so trains can pass safely through the active work zone. Additionally, construction crews are building the bridge foundation which requires extensive excavation to install a new storm water management system approximately 45′ below road elevation, tying into the previous system.
Due to the complex nature of this work, bridge construction is taking longer than originally expected. Montgomery County requires the pedestrian signal crossing on the 16th Street bridge to remain operational. Please contact Montgomery County Department of Transportation for additional information.
The Purple Line is progressing rapidly, and the project is 78.6% complete with 50% of track installed. The Purple Line team recognizes the impact bridge closure has on the local community and appreciates the community’s patience.
The 16-mile, 21-station Maryland Purple Line is scheduled to open in winter 2027.
Photo: © Nicholas Krotki – stock.adobe.com