During fall 2022, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) began decommissioning the original US 301 Nice/Middleton Bridge, following approved permits and using a combination of mechanical and controlled blast demolition. The full structure from shore to shore will come down by end of 2024.

Concrete from the bridge will be loaded onto a barge and transported to an artificial reef site, which provides habitat and shelter for fish and invertebrates, creating sanctuaries for diverse marine life. In total, approximately 9,500 tons of old bridge materials will be used to enhance habitat.

100% of the steel from the bridge will be recycled.

As another feature of the project, MDTA has worked with partner agencies to create newly seeded oyster bed on the 148-acre natural Lower Cedar Point Bar, advancing Maryland’s clean water goals. We are making great strides at improving habitat for striped bass, bluefish, oysters, and other fish in tidewater Maryland locations. The MDTA worked with Potomac River Fisheries Commission to plant nearly 12 million live oysters over the Bar. The oysters planted were dime to quarter sized to help improve survival rate. Based on research, a single adult oyster can filter approximately 50 gallons of water a day. Two additional oyster plantings are planned for the Lower Cedar Point Bar.

Lower Cedar Point Bar