(April 6, 2012) – Next Monday, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will begin permanent repairs to the slope along a section of MD 550 (Sabillasville Road) between Eylers Valley Flint and Kelbaugh roads in Frederick County.  Last April, SHA closed MD 550 after heavy rains created a mudslide that caused the slope adjacent to the road to become unstable and unsafe.   Last June, SHA opened one lane of MD 550, controlling traffic with a temporary traffic signal.

 

“SHA regrets the inconvenience this has caused for area residents and commuters,” said SHA District 7 Engineer David Coyne.  “Our engineers have designed a permanent repair to the slope and by mid-summer, SHA will reopen both lanes on MD 550.”
 
Last year, crews installed a temporary barrier with a rock fall fence containment system on the center line of the road capable of catching debris, rocks or small trees that may fall from the unstable slope. 

 

Over the next three months, crews will install a permanent barrier wall and rock fence and further stabilize the slope with vegetation. 

 

During daytime hours, the temporary traffic signal will be turned off and traffic will be managed using flagpersons.  After work is completed each day, the temporary traffic signal will be turned back on, with traffic alternating along the two-lane road.  Occasional nighttime total closures with detours are possible.  SHA will inform motorists of any closures several days in advance using portable message signs along MD 550.

 

A & M Concrete of Dulles, Virginia is SHA’s contractor for the $800,000 project.  Those who have questions about traffic operations on MD 550 or other State numbered routes in Frederick County, may call SHA’s District 7 Office at 301-624-8100 or toll free at1-800-635-5119.

 

While SHA and its transportation partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert and 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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