Bridge Improvement Project Designed to Replace Structures along I-270          
          
(December 16, 2008) – This week, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is beginning an $8 million project to replace two bridges along northbound and southbound I-270 (Eisenhower Memorial Highway) over Doctor Perry Road, south of MD 80 (Fingerboard Road) in Frederick County. The project should be complete fall 2009, weather permitting.          
          
The 58 year-old bridges along I-270 over Doctor Perry Road carry more than 82,000 motorists per day. As part of the bridge project, Doctor Perry Road will be lowered to provide increased clearance for the I-270 Bridge.           
          
During construction, traffic along northbound and southbound I-270 will be maintained through a bridge and roadway in the median. Traffic along northbound and southbound I-270 will be switched to the median to enable crews to replace the bridges in phases, which will reduce impacts to motorists during construction. The same number of through lanes will be available during construction of the new bridges. Motorists traveling along Doctor Perry Road should expect periodic single lane closures during construction; flagpersons and signs will guide motorists through the work zone. Motorists should expect reduced lane width and shoulder closures as part of construction of the median roadway and bridge.          
          
SHA awarded the contract to F. O. Day, Inc. of Rockville. Citizens who have questions about traffic operations along I-270, or other State numbered routes in Frederick County, may call SHA’s District 7 Office at 301-624-8100 or toll free at 1-800-635-5119. SHA reminds all drivers to buckle up, obey posted speed limits, think orange, and stay alert in the work zone. Motorists can learn more by logging onto www.choosesafetyforlife.com.           
          
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