(November 15, 2011) – Beginning Friday, November 18, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will close approximately three miles of MD 382 (Croom Road) between Bald Eagle School and Candy Hill roads in Brandywine, Prince George’s County.  The temporary closure will begin at 9 a.m. and all lanes will be open by 6 p.m. Friday.  Additional temporary closures will occur throughout the weekend to repair the slope adjacent to the roadway following heavy rains in August and September.  SHA anticipates all work to be completed by Tuesday morning, November 22, weather permitting.

On Saturday, November 19, SHA will temporarily close MD 382 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and single lane closures will occur along MD 382 on November 20 and 21 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.   If weather becomes an issue, SHA will complete the project using single lane closures next Monday and Tuesday.

Heavy rains associated with Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee weakened the slope adjacent to MD 382, threatening the stability of the roadway.  SHA crews will perform a “soil nailing” operation to stabilize the slope and protect MD 382.  Soil nailing consists of installing metal poles along the failing slope and reinforcing them with steel.  Once this is complete, metal mesh is installed on the poles and concrete is used to create a permanent barrier to keep soil and debris from compromising MD 382.

SHA will use variable message signs and flag persons to guide motorists through the work zone.  SHA will detour MD 382 during the temporary closures.  Motorists will be directed from MD 382 to Candy Hill Road to Molly Berry Road to Baden Naylor Road to Nelson Pierre Road to Bald Eagle School Road and back to MD 382.  Approximately 4,600 vehicles use MD 382 each day so motorists should plan on extra travel time during the slope repair project.

SHA awarded the $50,000 contract to Soil Mill Launcher of Denver, Colorado.  Stay alert - look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.  Slow down and don't follow too closely.  Safer Driving. Safer Work Zones.  For Everyone.

Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information!  Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org  for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely - Maryland law prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

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