Talbot Avenue Bridge to be Closed for Repairs

BA/bridge/pr                         Contact: Holger Serrano, 301-217-2121



TALBOT AVENUE BRIDGE
TO BE CLOSED FOR REPAIRS          For Immediate release: Aug. 8, 1996


     The Talbot Avenue Bridge over the CSX&T Railroad in Silver Spring will
be closed for repairs, beginning at 7 p.m. this evening according to an
announcement from the County's Department of Public Works and Transportation.
     The bridge, which connects the Montgomery Hills and Rosemary Hills
neighborhoods, was built in 1918 as a simple, one-lane span. 
     As the result of a recent periodic inspection by County consultants, it
was determined that the bridge was in need of repairs.  During construction
repair work  designed to keep the bridge open, engineers discovered that one
of the abutments was worse than previously reported.
     The Department of Public Works and Transportation ordered that the
bridge be closed immediately for the safety of motorists.  The bridge carries
between 1,000 and 2,000 vehicles a day.  Appropriate advance warning signs
will be placed at strategic locations within the community. 
     The County will determine the type and magnitude of repairs needed to
re-open the bridge in a safe manner.  Pending cost estimates, a decision will
be made whether to proceed with repairs or close the bridge permanently.
     A decision is expected by the end of August.  Residents in the affected
neighborhoods will be notified through community representatives and the
media.
                                  -more-
TALBOT AVENUE BRIDGE .TO BE CLOSED FOR REPAIRS               2-2-2-2

     County officials said in a letter to residents of the affected
communities that they regret the inconvenience, but closed the bridge in the
interest of public safety.  All County emergency agencies have been notified
of the action.
     For further information, call Holger Serrano, chief of the Design
Section, Division of Engineering Services, 301-217-2121.
     
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