Replacement of Canton Viaduct I-895 and Rehabilitation of Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and Approaches

Originally constructed in the mid-1950s and last renovated in 1985, the I-895 Canton Viaduct was the only structurally deficient listing on the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) bridge inventory in 2018. To address safety concerns, MDTA opted to replace the I-895 bridge as part of a 3-mile project that also replaced the Holabird Avenue exit ramp (Exit 10) and rehabilitated the tunnel.

The existing 3,300-foot-long elevated steel girder bridge north of the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel crossed 23 sets of railroad tracks, multiple I-95 exit and entry ramps, and numerous City streets. The new I-895 bridge replacement on the existing alignment required four construction phases and use of a moveable barrier system to maintain traffic flow in both directions.

Construction inspection services involved monitoring and documenting contractor compliance with plans and specifications, as well as permit, erosion and sediment control, maintenance of traffic, schedule, quality, and safety requirements. Additional services included scheduling and conducting work progress meetings, coordinating utility relocations, reviewing and processing contractor payments, and conducting daily inspections, including NACE-certified bridge inspections, throughout construction.

Though the 3-year project required both daytime and nighttime operations, every effort was made to minimize disruptions for local communities. Full opening of the I-895 bridge was achieved ahead of schedule in summer 2021.