This project provides for the replacement of two failing culverts under Seven Locks Road in front of the historic Scotland AME Zion Church. Work was originally initiated under the Bridge Renovation project (P509753). The existing culverts to be replaced are twin 44" by 72" structural plate pipe arch (SPPA) and a 36" by 56" corrugated metal pipe (CMP). The replacement culverts will be upsized to allow for significantly more flow in order to mitigate flooding risk to the church property.

The Average Daily Traffic (ADT) is approximately 14,224 vehicles. The roadway capacity will not change as a result of this project.

Property acquisition is scheduled for FY26. Construction is scheduled for FY27 and will be completed in FY28. The estimated duration of construction is 12 months. Project experienced unanticipated utility relocations and negotiations with the Scotland AME Zion Church resulting in design delays.

The proposed replacement work is necessary to provide a safe roadway condition for the traveling public. The 2023 Bridge Inspection Report indicates that the steel culverts have 100 percent invert section loss and are in poor condition. In the past, the historic Scotland AME Church suffered multiple instances of severe flooding resulting in damage to the property. The church is currently undergoing restoration and renovation, including improvements to protect the building from flooding. In 2024, the Montgomery County Departments of Transportation and Permitting Services conducted further study of the area and concluded that increasing conveyance capacity of culverts in front of the church from the current design criteria of a 25-year storm to a 100-year storm would further mitigate risk of flooding to the church property.

A pedestrian impact analysis has been completed for this project.

Maryland Department of the Environment, Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Scotland AME Zion Church, Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services, and Utilities.