Boundary Stones
In 1952, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Changed Maryland Forever
7/30/2026 | 1m 30s
When the Chesapeake Bay Bridge opened in 1952, it changed Maryland's culture and economy.
On July 30, 1952, Maryland opened the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, linking the Western and Eastern shores. Before it, crossing the Bay meant slow ferries. Decades of advocacy — delayed by the Depression, WWII, and politics — paid off when construction began in 1949. At just over 4 miles, it was the world's longest over-water steel bridge. A second span followed in 1973.
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Boundary Stones is a local public television program presented by WETA
Boundary Stones
In 1952, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Changed Maryland Forever
7/30/2026 | 1m 30s
On July 30, 1952, Maryland opened the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, linking the Western and Eastern shores. Before it, crossing the Bay meant slow ferries. Decades of advocacy — delayed by the Depression, WWII, and politics — paid off when construction began in 1949. At just over 4 miles, it was the world's longest over-water steel bridge. A second span followed in 1973.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
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Boundary Stones is a local public television program presented by WETA