The Bay Bridge crosses the Chesapeake Bay along US 50/301. Its dual spans provide a direct connection between recreational and ocean regions on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and the metropolitan areas of Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington, D.C. On this day, June 28th 1973, the westbound structure opened.
At four miles, the spans are among the world’s longest and most scenic over-water structures. The original span opened in July 1952 and provides a two-lane roadway for eastbound traffic. The parallel structure opened in June 1973 and has three lanes for westbound travelers. During periods of heavy eastbound traffic, one lane of the westbound bridge is reversed to carry eastbound travelers (“two-way” traffic operations).
The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) shared vintage photos of the bridge from when the westbound side opened in 1973. Construction began in 1969.
Information and photos courtesy of MDTA.
