By Josh Davis, Associate Editor

(Oct. 12, 2018) A complete closure of Route 589 in Ocean Pines began on Monday and is scheduled to last “up to eight weeks,” according to the State Highway Administration.

Backed up traffic is apparently causing some havoc for motorists.

The closure was said to be along Route 589 at Turnville Creek, just south of Gum Point Road, but the affected area is much larger.

According to a statement from SHA District Community Liaison Bob Rager, crews were working to complete a “significant slope repair, which will require a complete closure and detour of Route 589 for up to eight weeks.”

Signs were erected directing motorists to use alternate routes 50, 113 and 90.

“Access to businesses within the project area will be maintained during construction, but delays should be expected,” the release said.

Ocean Pines General Manager John Bailey said the closure is creating some confusion.

“I think most folks are not taking the normal or the designated detours of 113 and 90 and 50. A lot of them are using Cathell and a lot of them are using Adkins [roads], which is producing significant problems over at 50 and the intersection there at Royal Farms, and at the high school,” Bailey said. “I haven’t spoken with State Highway directly, but that may be something where they want to look at the timing of that light to get more people through there.”

Bailey advised motorists to “be aware of it and be patient.”

“The traffic is certainly heavier on those roads than normal,” he said.

Ocean Pines Marketing and Public Relations Director Denise Sawyer said road closures were necessary headaches.

“Most of our residents would agree that road maintenance to the main traffic artery in Ocean Pines is crucial. In the past few days, I have been fielding several calls from Ocean Pines residents. Some are airing out their frustration, while others are offering up alternate routes. All in all, the association is happy to have Route 589 on Maryland State Highway Administration’s radar,” she said.