(June 11, 2009) – Today, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) activated a new traffic signal along MD 63 (Greencastle Pike) at the Pilot Travel Center west of Hagerstown in Washington County. The new signal improves safety and enhances operations at this location. Currently, trucks back up along MD 63 and the exit ramps from I-70 (Eisenhower Memorial Highway) as they wait to access the Pilot Travel Center.           
          
Delegate LeRoy E. Myers, Jr. joined SHA traffic engineers to switch the signal to full operation. Variable message signs are positioned in advance of the new signal to alert motorists. Pilot Travel Center will reimburse SHA for one third of the cost of the $81,000 improvement and make additional access improvements to their facility. Approximately 9,500 vehicles travel along MD 63 each day.           
          
The new traffic signal was constructed by Rommel Engineering of Odenton, MD. SHA encourages motorists to stay alert for the new signal along MD 63. Those who have questions about traffic operations along MD 63, or other State numbered routes in Washington 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 across Maryland. 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 to make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.           
          
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