(June 19, 2014) – Beginning Monday, July 21 CSX Transportation will repair two railroad crossings in Charles County.  This work will require the temporary closure of MD 6 (Charles Street) in La Plata and MD 5 Business (Leonardtown Road) in Waldorf for up to five days each. 

 

The work schedules are as follows:

 

• MD 6 (Charles Street) at the railroad crossing in La Plata – anticipated continuous closure period is Monday July 21 through Friday July 25.  No vehicles will be able to cross the tracks during this time.  Pedestrian access will be maintained. Area business access will remain open and accessible.

 

• MD 5 Business (Leonardtown Road) at the railroad crossing in Waldorf – anticipated continuous closure period is Monday July 28 through Friday August 1.  No vehicles will be able to cross the tracks during this time.  Pedestrian access will be maintained. Area business access will remain open and accessible.

 

Drivers will able to access MD 5 Business and MD 6 up to the roadway closure. CSX will provide signed detour routes for each crossing repair. In La Plata, motorists can use US 301, Rosewick Road, Radio Station Road and MD 488 (La Plata Road).  Emergency traffic to Charles Regional Medical Center can stay on MD 6 and follow the blue hospital “H” signs. 

 

In Waldorf, motorists can use US 301 (Crain Highway) and MD 5 (Mattawoman-Beantown Road).  The State Highway Administration (SHA) is working with CSX to manage traffic, publicize the closure and inspect the project.

 

Both of these crossings are in busy commercial corridors and SHA encourages area residents and commuters to support local businesses during the closures.  On average more than 21,000 vehicles travel MD 6 through La Plata and 30,000 travel MD 5 Business in Waldorf each day.

 

CSX Transportation will perform all repairs and manage the traffic detours.  Work includes removal of existing track and crossings, grading and preparation of the track beds, installation of new precast concrete crossing panels, reinstallation of rails and paving of the asphalt crossing approaches.  Those who have questions about the work may call 1-877-TELL-CSX (877-835-5279).

 

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 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.  Drivers, passengers as well as workers are at risk. Safer driving. Safer work zones. For everyone. Travelers may also visit www.MD511.org to plan their routes in advance.

 

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