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February 6, 2010

Trucker calls I-95 jam his worst ever

11th update today from the SHA Operations Center in Hanover:

Thanks to my colleague Andrea Walker for this account from one of those stuck in the afternoon-long standstill on Interstate 95 southbound starting near Route 175 and stretching back 6 miles:

Bob Harsche, who was headed to Virginia from Philadelphia with a truckload of Wonder Bread, said it was the worst traffic jam he’s ever encountered since he started driving rigs 38 years ago.

Harsche, 58, got stuck in the backup about eight miles south of Baltimore at about noon and by 6 p.m. had moved ½ mile. He passed the time by reading a spy novel, listening to the radio and even taking a nap. “I think other drivers were jealous of me after seeing my pillow against the window,” Harsche said.

He said other people passed the time by walking around the highway.

Harsche was supposed to have the day off Saturday, but volunteered to work. “See what happens when you volunteer,” Harsche said. “It’s a mess out here.”

The good news is that the logjam has been cleared and traffic appears to be moving steadily -- though slowly -- on I-95 and on other major state roads.

 

Posted by Michael Dresser at 7:21 PM |
        
About Michael Dresser
Michael Dresser has been an editor, reporter and columnist with The Sun longer than Baltimore's had a subway. He's covered retailing, telecommunications, state politics and wine. Since 2004, he's been The Sun's transportation writer. He lives in Ellicott City with his wife and travel companion, Cindy.

His Getting There column appears on Mondays. Mike's blog will be a forum for all who are interested in highways, transit and other transportation issues affecting Baltimore, Maryland and the region.
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