Chester-Area Drivers Should Expect US 301 Work-Zone Delays

Chester-area drivers should prepare for long-term work-zone conditions on southbound US 301 after Maryland began replacing a bridge over MD 290 in Queen Anne’s County on July 13, 2026.

The $9.1 million project involves the southbound US 301, also known as Blue Star Memorial Highway, bridge over MD 290, or Dudley Corners Road. The Maryland State Highway Administration expects construction to continue through late fall 2027, weather permitting.

One southbound lane will remain open

SHA says the bridge will be replaced in two phases while maintaining one lane of southbound US 301 through the work area. The route will remain open under the announced traffic plan, but drivers should expect narrower travel conditions, changing work-zone patterns and potentially slower trips near the bridge.

The project includes demolition of the existing three-section bridge and construction of a new single-span bridge. Crews also will complete stormwater management improvements, paving and landscaping.

The work-zone speed limit will be 45 mph. Automated speed enforcement will be used in the area, meaning drivers who exceed the posted limit may receive citations. The enforcement does not mean every driver passing through the work zone will receive a ticket, but motorists should watch the signs and adjust their speed before entering the project area.

Crane work could cause brief stops

SHA warns that drivers may encounter traffic holds of up to 15 minutes during certain crane operations, including the removal and placement of steel girders. The agency expects those operations to occur during off-peak hours, although the timing of individual holds may vary.

There is no detailed day-by-day delay forecast in the announced project information. SHA also has not announced a permanent detour. Drivers should allow additional time rather than assume a specific average delay for every trip.

Why Chester readers should watch the project

The bridge is not inside Chester, but the work affects a major connection used by residents, commuters, businesses and travelers moving through the Kent Island and Eastern Shore corridor. Southbound US 301 traffic near MD 290 may be especially sensitive to lane changes, construction activity and other traffic events along the broader US 50/301 route.

Business owners and workers who depend on predictable deliveries or commutes should monitor conditions before departure and consider avoiding the work area during crane operations when practical. Drivers should also remain alert for temporary traffic-control changes as the project moves between phases.

Where to check for updates

The official SHA project portal is the best place to monitor construction information, maps and later traffic-management updates. Drivers should distinguish this bridge project from separate Maryland Transportation Authority advisories involving US 50/301 or the Bay Bridge, which may affect the same general travel corridor but are not part of the bridge replacement.

Sources

• Maryland SHA bridge-replacement announcement
• MDOT SHA project portal
• Queen Anne's County Chester-Stevensville planning materials