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MDOT: earmark and navigation study advance for Thomas Johnson (Solomons) Bridge; replacement still years away
Summary
MDOT and SHA officials described progress on studies and permitting for the Thomas Johnson Bridge replacement, including a Coast Guard permitting step, vessel‑height measurements and bathymetric surveys; officials said the bridge remains safe but replacement requires a multi‑year program and funding plan.
Maryland Department of Transportation and State Highway Administration officials told the St. Mary's County Commission that work to advance a replacement for the Thomas Johnson (Solomons) Bridge is moving into project development, but a full replacement remains years from construction.
State Highway Administrator Will Pines said the project now has an earmark that has been obligated and that the Coast Guard has provided a letter allowing entry into permitting; SHA is procuring a solar‑powered mast height measuring system to capture vessel heights under the bridge and is conducting bathymetric surveys in the river. Pines said the vessel measurements could allow the team to reduce vertical clearance requirements and thereby lower structure cost. The draft navigation impact report is projected for 2026, Pines said, and the Coast Guard…
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