Ocean City Route 50 bridge to experience closures in January

OCEAN CITY, Md – The Route 50 bridge in Ocean City will undergo rehabilitation work from Jan. 5 to Feb. 3.

More than 80 years old and just over a half-mile long, the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge is a vital link to Ocean City. Repairs are planned to extend the bridge’s lifespan and improve durability. Drivers should expect delays throughout January.

From Jan. 20 to Feb. 3, the bridge will be completely closed. Traffic will be detoured to the Route 90 bridge.

Visitors say the traffic disruptions are worth the repairs and welcome the work during the off-season to avoid impacts during the busy summer months.

Ryan Whittington, who works for the Ocean City Fire Department, shared fond memories of traveling over the bridge in his youth and said he is glad it is receiving attention.

“It is exciting to see the infrastructure taken care of, something we all rely on,” Whittington said.

Whittington urged drivers to allow extra travel time when heading into Ocean City and to plan ahead for the closure beginning Jan. 20.

Updates on the bridge project are available on the Ocean City Fire Department’s Facebook page.