Work on the large void at Pratt and Howard Streets is being performed in a comprehensive, smart, and safe manner.  More traffic lanes should be open next week.

Protecting the work area by installing stormwater bypasses on the streets was a successful early strategy, even though it required closing the area to vehicles. The strategy minimized additional inundation, allowing crews to clean and repair the 36-inch storm drain in the area of the void.

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (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 to the excavation support system to shore up and protect 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 on-site meetings are being coordinated by the City’s Office of Emergency Management.

DPW’s Office of Engineering and Construction is accelerating 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 Director Rudolph S. Chow, P.E.

“The safety of the public and workers has been paramount and Baltimore Police Department has helped to keep the site secure and safe,”   said Director Chow.

Replacement of the 10-inch sewer line will start after the support of excavation is installed and the area is safe for workers. After the sewer line work is completed, the 12-inch water main work can begin. The underground utility work at the site should be completed by August 9.

Northbound lanes of Howard Street (north of Pratt Street) are now open. It is anticipated that we may be able to open two northbound lanes of Howard Street (south of Pratt Street) towards the end of next week, pending completion of sewer line.

All conduit and above-ground utility work in the area – BGE, Verizon, and DOT – should be completed by mid-August with the final site Light Rail station restorations to follow, weather permitting.