Open House for Project to Replace MD 144/Ali Ghan Rd Bridge on Evitts Creek, Allegany Cty

(September 15, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will host a public open house from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, September 24, to present information about the upcoming project to replace the MD 144 (Ali Ghan Road) bridge over Evitts Creek. The open house will be held at the Allegany Museum, 3 Pershing St., Cumberland. 

The project will replace the existing three-span bridge with a 110-foot-long single-span bridge. The existing bridge, originally constructed in 1966, is safe but in need of replacement. This project is part of SHA’s Bridge System Preservation Program, which works to replace aging infrastructure to reduce future maintenance costs and support safety and mobility for all users. 

The design phase is complete, and construction is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2027. During construction, SHA will maintain westbound traffic on MD 144 and detour eastbound traffic using Christie Road NE, Naves Cross Road NE, westbound I-68, MD 952 (Hillcrest Drive), MD 952A (Rannels Road), eastbound I-68, and Ramp 3. (See map.) The State Highway Administration encourages motorists to use marked detour routes during construction.

Detour map for MD 144, with directions to meeting location

The open house will provide attendees with an opportunity to learn more about the construction schedule and view maps and displays highlighting the proposed improvements and planned detour routes. There will be no formal presentation. Attendees may arrive at any time during the open house and view displays at their own pace. State Highway Administration representatives will be available to listen to feedback and answer project-related questions. This information may be used to improve and advance the project. 

For more information about the MD 144 Bridge Replacement Project, please visit the newly updated Project Portal page on the State Highway Administration website.

Those needing assistance to participate in the workshop, such as an interpreter for hearing/speech difficulties or assistance with the English language, may email [email protected] in advance of the event. Please indicate the desired language in the subject line. Maryland Relay Service can assist teletype users at 7-1-1.

 For questions about the open house or general inquiries, contact Project Manager Solomon Aragaw at [email protected] or Community Relations Manager Holly Pearl at [email protected].

The project is consistent with the Department’s Serious About Safety initiative, a focus on projects, programs and practices that promote safety and save lives. Pedestrians and motorists are urged to remain alert, obey all posted speed limits and avoid distractions while driving and traveling through work zones. Motorists can dial #77 on a mobile device for roadside assistance. 

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