Annapolis, MD – Images circulating on social media raised concerns this week about the safety of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, prompting an official response from the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA).
According to MDTA, a recent viral photo of a section of the westbound span appeared to show a misaligned pier cap, leading to speculation online about possible structural issues. Officials, however, said the bridge remains safe for all motorists.
MDTA confirmed it conducted an inspection of the pier on Sunday and found “no indication of movement or distress at the location.” The agency emphasized that it performs rigorous routine condition inspections across all of its facilities, with bridge safety as its highest priority.
While the image shared online shows the pier cap looking off-centered, MDTA explained that the bridge girders — the key structural elements supporting the span — are aligned and centered with the pier cap. Importantly, the agency noted, this positioning has not changed since the bridge’s original construction.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge, officially named the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, serves as a vital connection between Maryland’s eastern and western shores, carrying tens of thousands of vehicles daily. Officials reassured travelers that both spans of the bridge are structurally sound and continue to meet safety standards.
Motorists are encouraged to rely on official updates from the Maryland Transportation Authority for accurate information regarding bridge conditions rather than social media speculation.
