​(December 5, 2011) – In partnership with the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office and Frederick County Public Schools, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is enhancing safety with the installation of a traffic signal switch along MD 80 at Singleton Drive/Pontius Court near Urbana Middle School. As part of the Maryland Safe Routes to School initiative, the new signal switch will allow authorities to extend the time for students to cross the roads without traffic conflicts.  The modifications were completed in advance of classes beginning today.  In the short term, the switch will be activated by a temporarily assigned Frederick County Sheriff’s Office Crossing Guard.

SHA has modified the existing signal to allow an additional 15-20 seconds for students to safely cross the roads. Before and after school over the next few weeks, a crossing guard will activate a button in the signal cabinet that will extend the time for pedestrians to cross.  The additional pedestrian crossing time will only be available when the switch is activated. 

The Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration manages the federally funded Maryland Safe Routes to School program, which encourages children in grades K-8 to walk and bike to school, and funds education, engineering and enforcement initiatives to protect children in their daily treks.  The grants are awarded annually to local government and non-profit organizations on a competitive basis based on need and problem identification.
Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on MD 80 or other State numbered routes in Frederick County, may call SHA’s District 7 Office toll free at 1-800-635-5119. 

SHA reminds motorists to plan ahead and check travel conditions by calling 511 or visiting www.md511.org.  Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. 

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