Amtrak will be reconstructing both Bush River and Gunpowder River Bridges in our near future.
The Gunpowder Bush Waterways Advocacy Group was established May 2025, comprised of Bush & Gunpowder River community members interested in these projects, volunteering public oversight to help influence current planning for community interests and environmental consideration.
Snapshot of Current Plans
- Bush River Bridge: Replacement of movable draw bridge to fixed structure to support speeds up to 160mph, clearance to be 30ft above mean high tide. No changes to horizontal clearance.
- Amtrak Public Project Landing page https://amtraknewera.com/bush/
- Gunpowder River Bridge: Replacement of sealed draw bridge to fixed structure to support speeds of 145mph or higher, clearance to be 15ft above mean high tide. No changes to horizontal clearance.
- Amtrak Public Project Landing page https://amtraknewera.com/gunpowder/
- Any questions/comments can be emailed to their team at BGRBProject@Amtrak.com
Beneath the Gunpowder River Bridge
Current clearance is 12 feet at mean tide
Advocacy Timeline
- In May 2026, The US Coast Guard issued Public Notice to Mariners, informing interested parties that official Amtrak proposals have been received and gave public until June 25th to express support or opposition of these plans.
- GBWAG requested to meet with Amtrak, who accepted the interest and was sent a list of current concerns June 18th.
- A dedicated, in-person meeting with Amtrak was established: August 18th 6-7pm at Joppatowne Christian Church.
- Gunpowder Bush Waterways Advocacy Group continues to host monthly virtual meetings for community members to discuss recent benchmarks and needs. Next virtual meeting 9/15/26 6-7pm
Perspectives to Consider
Engineering – Proposed bridge clearances hindering future navigation and potential for community revenue. Changes in bridge height also means changes to track height. The public would like to know what this looks like and what is practical.
Environmental – Assuring construction and handling of sediment disturbance is managed appropriately to protect river health.
Residential – What changes can residents expect to see? (Decibel levels, vibrations, sound buffers). We are also encouraging Amtrak to preserve portion of existing structures for public fishing access if possible.
Please join us 8/18/26 at 725 Trimble Road Joppatowne MD 21085 for an informational session to hear from the Amtrak project team and meet neighbors living or navigating these waterways!
**RSVP encouraged for headcount and emailing list – Sarah Kestner – Sarah.J.Hauss@gmail.com – Thank You!
