Traffic is fully restored along Pratt Street, and two northbound and two southbound lanes on Howard Street are now open, marking the progress that the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) and its partners are making on the intersection’s complex infrastructure repairs.  

These roadway openings signal that DPW is nearing the end of its sewer, storm drain, and water main repairs. This week Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has been working to restore its Light Rail infrastructure, which was damaged when underground infrastructure at the location failed on July 8.

DPW is leading a multi-agency team that includes local, state, and private interests. In collaboration with MTA and CSX, DPW oversaw the design and construction of the support system to shore up and protect the underground portion of the work site. The Baltimore City Department of Transportation (DOT) is coordinating the design for the conduit replacement, and the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is protecting its Light Rail assets and making sure a handicap access ramp is rebuilt. Daily meetings were being coordinated by the City’s Office of Emergency Management, but have been suspended since most of the work has been completed.

DPW’s Office of Engineering and Construction has accelerated the repair process by using in-house talent to design the water main replacement work. Utilization of the design/build method avoids delays as the site is prepped.  This more efficient process is in line with the vision brought to the agency by DPW Director Rudolph S. Chow, P.E.

Director Chow extends his gratitude to City residents, commuters, businesses, and visitors for their patience while the inter-agency teams worked to pursue a long-term fix.