(May 7, 2012) – Starting today, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will begin the final phase of a $2 million safety and resurfacing project on a two-mile section of MD 320 (Piney Branch Road) between the D.C. line and MD 193 (University Boulevard) in Takoma Park.  Weather permitting, the project should be complete late July.

During this phase, SHA will grind (remove top layer of pavement), patch and resurface all lanes of Piney Branch Road, as well as restripe the roadway.  The project will improve drivability on the heavily traveled corridor of Piney Branch Road between the DC line and MD 193, as well as improve pedestrian access to homes, local businesses, bus stops and churches.  On average, 15,000 vehicles travel Piney Branch Road each day.

Through late July, crews will close one lane in both directions of MD 320 at 9 p.m., then two lanes in both directions at 11 p.m. nightly, Sunday through Thursday.  All lanes will be open by 5 a.m. daily. Parking restrictions will be in place during construction so motorists should allow extra time to locate alternate parking.  Vehicles will be towed if parked illegally during construction.

SHA’s contractor for the work is Concrete General, Inc., of Gaithersburg.  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 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

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