Md 281 over Big Elk Creek
GoodCecil County, Maryland · 0.39 Mile East of Md 7D · Structure no. 100000070060010
- Built
- 1960
- 65 years old, rebuilt 1992
- Condition
- Good
- inspected May 2023
- Type
- Stringer/Multi-beam or Girder
- Steel Continuous
- Length
- 217 ft
- 4 main spans
- Daily traffic
- 6,681
- 2009 count
- Owner
- State
- State Highway Agency
About this bridge
Md 281 over Big Elk Creek is a steel continuous stringer/multi-beam or girder carrying Md 281 over Big Elk Creek in Cecil County, Maryland. It was built in 1960 and reconstructed in 1992, so it is 65 years old, older than the Maryland average of 52.6 years.
The most recent inspection reported to the Federal Highway Administration rates it in good condition with a lowest component rating of 7 out of 9. All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted.
It carries about 6,681 vehicles a day, roughly 8% of them trucks, projected to reach 7,507 by 2026. The structure is 217 ft (66.1 m) long and 42 ft wide. If it were closed, the detour would be 5 mi (8 km).
Location
Open in Google MapsCondition and inspection
All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted.
| Component | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Superstructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Substructure | 7 Good | Some minor problems. |
| Channel and channel protection | 6 Satisfactory | Structural elements show some minor deterioration. |
Structure
Traffic and service
Ownership and planned work
Frequently asked questions
When was Md 281 over Big Elk Creek built?
It was built in 1960, making it 65 years old in 2025. It was reconstructed in 1992.
What condition is Md 281 over Big Elk Creek in?
The National Bridge Inventory rates it in good condition. All primary components (deck, superstructure, substructure, or culvert) are rated 7 or higher. No significant problems were noted. The last reported inspection was in May 2023.
How much traffic does Md 281 over Big Elk Creek carry?
About 6,681 vehicles per day (2009 count), of which roughly 8% are trucks.
How long is Md 281 over Big Elk Creek?
The structure is 217 ft (66.1 m) long with a longest span of 53 ft (16.2 m) and a deck 42 ft wide.
Who owns Md 281 over Big Elk Creek?
It is owned by the State Highway Agency.