Improvements to Occur at Key Intersections along US 40 Alternate and MD 351; Motorists Should Expect Single Lane Closures Through Fall           
          
(August 26, 2008) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun two projects to enhance safety and reduce congestion at two intersections in Frederick County - along US 40 Alternate and MD 351. At the intersection of US 40 Alternate (Old National Pike) and Mt. Phillip Road, SHA is adding a dedicated left turn lane along westbound US 40 Alternate and dedicated left turn “arrow” signals at both directions of the intersection.           
          
The $251,000 project also includes resurfacing the intersection and adding new pavement markings. Motorists should expect single-lane closures along US 40 Alternate between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Variable message signs, barrels, flagpersons, and arrow boards will guide motorists through the work zone. Weather permitting, work will be complete this fall. More than 11,000 vehicles travel along US 40 Alternate near Mt. Phillip Road each day. SHA awarded the contract to Concrete General of Gaithersburg.           
          
At the intersection of MD 351 and Corporate Drive, SHA will install a new stop sign at the MD 351 (Ballenger Creek Pike) and Corporate Drive intersection, directing motorists to stop prior to turning onto MD 351. Temporary stop ahead warning signs are placed in advance of the intersection to alert motorists of the new traffic pattern. More than 2,800 vehicles travel along MD 351 near Corporate Drive each day. SHA           
          
Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on US 40 Alt. 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. 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 include 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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