Maryland State Transportation officials warned beach-goers Tuesday to expect major delays on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge for the next ten weeks -- including over the long Labor Day weekend -- after a study of the concrete sidewalls found structural problems that require immediate repairs,

Crews began a thorough inspection of the eastbound span after a fatal crash during two-way traffic on Sunday, August 10. A tractor-trailer was sideswiped by a Camaro whose driver apparently fell asleep, investigators believe. The semi jackknifed, slammed through the sidewall, and plunged into the bay, killing the driver, 57-year-old John Short of Willards, Md.

Inspectors say the closer examination of the steel beams inside the concrete sidewalls of the bridge turned up corrosion alongside the right lane near the Eastern Shore. Crews are adding steel plates to reinforce the walls, often referred to as Jersey barriers.

Crews plan to close one lane of the eastbound span for the next ten weeks to make repairs and continue inspections. As the restrictions went into effect Tuesday, eastbound traffic began to back up.

Officials say two-way traffic will operate on the westbound span during peak times. Three lanes will be available westbound during the morning rush hour.

For the upcoming holiday weekend, travelers from the Baltimore area area asked to detour around the north side of the Chesapeake Bay.

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