Laurel officials are hoping a new low bridge warning system can prevent the headaches caused by trucks becoming stuck beneath the CSX Tunnel at Main and First streets.
Unveiled last week, the $8,000 warning system includes two lasers on Main Street, just off Route 1 northbound, that will activate a warning sign with flashing lights if a truck taller than 11 feet, 2 inches drives through the area. The sign is about 200 feet from the bridge.
The City of Laurel is one of the first jurisdictions in Maryland to put such a system into service.
Laurel Director of Public Works Rob Ferree said he's hopeful this warning system will 100 percent prevent any other trucks from becoming lodged under the bridge.
"Now with the lights flashing, they [truckers] should get it," Ferree said.
Between five and ten trucks become stuck beneath the bridge each year crating extended detours in the downtown area, according to Ferree.
Sometimes, it can take several hours to dislodge the vehicles by deflating the tires or calling in a tow truck, he said.