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The twin spans of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, which connect the western and the eastern sides of Maryland, could be joined by a third crossing in the future. 

The twin spans of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, which connect the western and the eastern sides of Maryland, could be joined by a third crossing in the future. 

Photographer: Jim WatsonAFP via Getty Images

CityLab
Transportation

How Many Bridges Does the Chesapeake Bay Need?

A plan to add a new span across the waterway has critics concerned about a triple threat of sprawl, pollution and climate impacts. But Maryland beachgoers are eager for traffic relief. 

Ethan McLeod

Steve Kline, a 7th-generation Marylander, knows well the vacation tradition of driving across the twin spans of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge for trips to the beach resort of Ocean City. His grandfather, an ironworker, helped build the bridge’s first span, which opened in 1952. 

He’s also very familiar with another seasonal rite: wading through the infamous miles-long traffic backups that last from Memorial Day through the end of summer.