(March 7, 2012) – As part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) improvements in Bethesda, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will temporarily close access to Elmhirst Drive (just north of Cedar lane) from MD 355 (Rockville Pike) beginning tomorrow, March 8 at 8 a.m.  The closure is necessary to relocate a water line within the project limits.  Weather permitting; the water line work should be completed by March 23.

During the temporary closure of Elmhirst Drive, motorists along MD 355 will be directed to use Locust Hill Road and Elmhirst Lane.  SHA will use detour signs, cones and barrels to guide motorists through the work zone. 

The work is the first step of the $9 million BRAC advanced utility breakout improvement contract.  SHA awarded the contract to Fort Myer Construction of Washington, D.C.

Crews will work weekdays between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. The temporary closure of Elmhirst Drive at MD 355 will remain in place 24 hours a day for the duration of the water line replacement.

Citizens that have questions about water service interruptions should contact the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) Construction Office at (301) 206-7339 between  7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Questions about problems after water service has been restored should be directed to the WSSC 24-hour Maintenance Service Hotline at (301) 206-4002. 

As crews work to keep work zones safe, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. 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 Web site. Remember to use 511 safely - Maryland law restricts hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.  Follow us on Twitter @MDSHA.

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