Traffic to be Detoured for Drainage Repair           
          
(June 16, 2009) – This weekend, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will temporarily close all lanes along eastbound I-68 (National Freeway) at the New Germany Road interchange east of Grantsville, Garrett County. The closure is necessary to improve the bridge approach and replace a stormwater management drain pipe.           
          
Beginning Friday evening, June 19, at 8 p.m., SHA will temporarily close eastbound I-68 at the New Germany Road interchange. Crews will work continuously until the project is completed. The road should reopen no later than Sunday evening, June 21. During the closure motorists will be detoured at the New Germany Road interchange, Exit 24, across the interchange back to I-68. Flag persons, barrels, and temporary signs will guide motorists through the detour. More than 15,000 vehicles travel along this section of I-68 each day, motorists should plan on extra travel time.          
          
The $40,000 project was awarded to Keystone Lime Co. of Pennsylvania. Those who have questions about traffic operations along I-68, or other State numbered routes in Garrett County, may call SHA’s District 6 Office at 301-729-8400 or toll free at 1-800-760-7138.           
          
During the next several months, there could be more than 350 work zones. Remember that work zones are not only large construction projects possibly taking years to complete, but smaller, mobile operations such as mowing, pothole repair and litter pick ups. Choose Safety for Life and make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.           
          
          
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