Maryland Identifies 6 Baltimore-Area Bridges With Shedding Lead Paint

State environmental agency says lead contamination threatens waterways and public health

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:56am

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph revealing the internal metal framework of an urban bridge, with flecks of bright red lead paint visible on the surface, conceptually illustrating the hidden danger of lead contamination.Aging infrastructure can conceal dangerous lead paint hazards that threaten public health and the environment.Baltimore Today

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has identified six Baltimore-area bridges and overpasses where lead paint is peeling off and falling into surrounding waterways, posing a serious public health and environmental threat. Three of the affected bridges are managed by the city of Baltimore, while the other three are under the jurisdiction of the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA).

Why it matters

Lead paint exposure can cause significant health issues, especially in children, including intelligence deficits, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Adults are also at risk of high blood pressure, headaches, diminished motor skills, and memory loss from even small amounts of lead exposure. Addressing the lead paint contamination on these bridges is critical to protecting the local community and environment.

The details

Officials say the lead abatement process is complicated, as contractors require specialized certification and containment systems to safely remove the peeling paint. The MDE is now reviewing response plans from the city and SHA to ensure they take both short-term and long-term action, including identifying all bridges with lead paint issues, preventing further paint chips from falling, and collecting any fallen paint chips that could pollute waterways.

  • The MDE announced the lead paint issues on April 14, 2026.

The players

Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE)

The state environmental agency responsible for identifying the lead paint issues and working with local authorities to address the contamination.

Baltimore City

The local government agency that manages three of the bridges with shedding lead paint.

Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA)

The state agency that manages the other three bridges with lead paint problems.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The federal agency that has warned about the serious health risks of even small amounts of lead paint exposure.

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What’s next

The MDE says it will continue working with Baltimore City and the Maryland SHA to ensure they take both immediate and long-term action to address the lead paint contamination on the affected bridges.

The takeaway

This lead paint issue highlights the ongoing public health and environmental risks posed by aging infrastructure, and the critical need for comprehensive lead abatement programs to protect vulnerable communities. Addressing this problem will require a coordinated effort between state and local authorities.