Project Will Improve Safety and Ride Quality in Colesville          
          
(March 26, 2009) – This week, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) began a safety and resurfacing project along a one-half mile section of MD 650 (New Hampshire Avenue) between Shaw Avenue and Randolph Road in Colesville, Montgomery County. Weather permitting, the project will be complete in early fall.          
          
The $1.2 million project also includes cleaning, repairing and replacing existing inlets and pipes, repairing and replacing the concrete median, curbs and gutters. Safety improvements include upgrading sidewalks to Americans with Disability standards, adding new pavement markings, and replacing traffic signal loop detectors at the Wolf Road and Randolph Road intersections.          
          
During construction, motorists can expect single lane closures and possible lane shifts along MD 650 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., Monday through Friday; and double lane closures between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Monday through Friday. Motorists should plan on extra commute time while using MD 650 due to this and another safety and resurfacing project along MD 650 between Milestone Drive and Venice Drive one-half mile to the south.           
          
SHA will provide variable message signs, drums, and arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone. SHA awarded the contract to F.O. Day Co., Inc. of Rockville.          
          
When workers are on the road, THINK ORANGE, which is the color of construction signs, barrels and warning devices. Please slow down, stay alert and expect the unexpected. Choose to make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.           
          
Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on MD 650 or other State numbered routes in Montgomery County may call SHA’s District 3 Office at 301-513-7300 or toll free at 1-800-749-0737.           
          
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