Eastbound MD 140 to be Detoured as Part of Community Enhancement Project to Improve Congestion, Pedestrian Safety, and Drainage for Main Street Community          
          
          
(September 16, 2008) – As part of SHA’s commitment to preserving its existing highway system, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is beginning an $18 million community safety and enhancement project along MD 140 (Baltimore Street) between Harney Road and MD 832 (Old Taneytown Road). The project will improve nearly two miles along MD 140 and should be complete by spring 2011, weather permitting.           
          
The “streetscape” project includes full reconstruction and resurfacing along MD 140 between MD 832 and west of Harney Road, upgrading the storm water management system and replacement of water lines within project limits. The sewer system will also be upgraded along MD 194 (Frederick Street/York Street) between Westview Drive/Record Lane and just south of Piney Creek.           
          
During the first phase of construction, SHA will detour traffic along eastbound MD 140 to Trevanion Road to Antrim Boulevard and back to eastbound MD 140. SHA will only detour traffic during the first phase of construction, with this section being the best option for a detour. The detour will allow crews to expedite construction along eastbound MD 140. A temporary traffic signal has been installed on the local road system at the Trevanion Road and Antrim Boulevard intersection to assist with traffic flow.           
          
SHA will place the signal on “flash mode” next week and will switch to full color operation the week of September 22. Westbound MD 140 will remain open to ensure that residential and commercial access is maintained during construction. Crews will work Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cones, barrels, and barrier walls will guide motorists through the work zone.          
          
As part of pedestrian safety improvements, existing sidewalks will be reconstructed and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant sidewalk ramps will be installed at all intersections throughout the project limits. New pavement markings, crosswalks, and traffic signs will be installed throughout the corridor. New traffic signals will be added along MD 140 at Baumgardner Avenue and Trevanion Road.           
          
Existing traffic signals at Chevro Drive/Grand Drive and MD 194 will be enhanced with accessible pedestrian (APS) and countdown signals to assist those crossing at the MD 140 intersections. The APS system is an automated voice that alerts pedestrians when to cross; countdown signals display a “30 to zero” timer, showing how much is remaining to cross the street. When complete, traffic signals along MD 140 in this corridor will be interconnected, which will improve traffic flow through Taneytown.           
          
To incorporate the existing character of Taneytown while enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal, ornamental pedestrian lighting, tree plantings and landscaping will be placed along MD 140 from Church Road to Trevanion Road and along MD 194 from Westview Drive/Record Lane to Benner Lane.           
          
SHA awarded the contract to Kibler Construction of Finksburg. SHA and the contractor appreciate motorists’ patience during the construction process and remind all drivers to plan for extra travel time, buckle up, obey posted speed limits, stay alert and use caution while driving through highway work zones.          
          
Citizens who have questions about traffic operations along MD 140, or other State numbered routes in Carroll County, may call SHA’s District 7 Office at 301-624-8100 or toll free at 1-800-635-5119. For more information on work zone safety information, log onto www.choosesafetyforlife.com.