Hatem Bridge (US 40) Bicycle Access

Starting Friday, July 1, 2016, bicyclists will be allowed to cross the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge (US 40) over the Susquehanna River between Havre de Grace in Harford County and Perryville in Cecil County during designated times.

• When warning lights are flashing, indicating that a bicyclist is on the bridge, drivers are encouraged to drive at a safe speed and stay in the left lane. Trucks over five tons must use the right lane but may use the left lane to safely pass bicycles.Share the Bridge!

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2. ​What time of day can I ride my bike across the Hatem Bridge?

• Saturday - Sunday, dawn to dusk
• State Holidays, dawn to dusk

Note: When bicycle access is restricted in the event of fog, wind, other inclement weather, high traffic volumes or major traffic incident, notification will be made via variable message signs and on the Maryland Transportation Authority's (MDTA) Twitter account at twitter.com/TheMDTA.

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3. What are the best times to cross?

• Based on projected traffic volumes, we encourage bicyclists to cross the bridge during these recommended hours:
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  • Saturday- Dawn to 10 a.m., 4 p.m. to dusk
  • Sunday- Dawn to noon, 6 p.m. to dusk
  • State Holidays- Dawn to dusk

Note: Bicycle access might be restricted if high traffic volumes or inclement weather (i.e. high winds) present a safety issue during the holiday period.

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4. Do I have to pay a toll if riding my bike?

• MDTA is prohibited from offering free passage to customers under our Trust Agreement. All motorists, including bikes, are responsible for their tolls. Cyclists may use their E-ZPass transponder or visit a customer service center during business hours to pay their tolls.

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5. How old do I have to be to ride my bike across the bridge?

• Bicyclists must be 18 years of age or older OR have a valid driver's license.

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6. What should I do before crossing the bridge on my bike?

Bicyclists should push the designated button prior to crossing the bridge to activate warning lights that alert drivers when a bicyclist is crossing. The lights will flash for 10-15 minutes, providing the bicyclist time to safely cross the bridge.

Even if the lights are already flashing when you arrive at the bridge, still push the button to ensure the full 10-15 minute cycle is reactivated.

Be visible by wearing bright clothing in the daytime. Maintain your bicycle and make sure your reflectors and lights are in working condition. Wear a helmet and wear it properly!

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7. Are there designated bicycle lanes on the Hatem Bridge?

1. The Hatem Bridge has two traffic lanes in each direction but does not have designated bike lanes. The bridge and existing lane configuration do not have enough room for bike lanes. Bicycles and motor vehicles must share the right lane.

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8. Which lane should I use when riding my bicycle?

1. Bicyclists must ride in the direction of traffic and should position themselves in the center of the right lane. Bicyclists are encouraged to ride single file and follow all other rules of the road.

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9. What if there is construction on the bridge?

• When a lane on the bridge is closed for maintenance or construction, motorists and bicyclists will share the open lane.

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10. Is there a place for me to stop on or near the bridge?

• Bicyclists are NOT permitted to stop while crossing the. If you need to pull over, find a safe location farther down eastbound or westbound US 40 away from the bridge.

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• Stay where you are and dial #77 for assistance.

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• Call the Hatem Bridge Toll Manager at 410-537-1106 to pre-pay tolls. Call the Hatem Bridge Duty Officer at 410-537-1196 to give the MDTA Police advance notice.

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• Pedestrians, skateboards, scooters and skates are NOT permitted.

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• Cyclists not wanting to cross the bridge by bicycle may still use a taxi or local bus service (weekdays only) to cross the bridge. There is signing providing the taxi service information.

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• Visit the Maryland Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Administration website at https://zerodeathsmd.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-bicyclist-safety/.

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