Motorists Should Slow Down and Stay Alert

(October 27, 2016) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) is beginning a $14 million reconstruction project on US 40 Alternate (Main Street) between Ivy Hill Drive and Middletown Parkway in Frederick County.  The project will enhance pedestrian safety, improve drainage and upgrade the stormwater treatment for the roadway.   

“SHA is working closely with town officials and other stakeholders to establish a clear line of communication to keep citizens informed about the upcoming construction in Middletown,” states District 7 Engineer Mark Crampton. “We thank the community in advance for their patience as we begin the reconstruction project. Please remember to slow down and stay alert within the work zone.”

SHA’s contractor, Milani Construction, Inc. of Washington, D.C. will:

• Construct ADA-compliant sidewalks and pedestrian sidewalk ramps;

• Install crosswalks and pedestrian crossing signals at intersections on US 40 Alternate between Ivy Hill Drive and Middletown Parkway;

• Install a new waterline within the project limits;

• Improve highway drainage by adding drainage inlets and pipes, as well as storm water management ponds;

• Install lighting; and

• Pave and stripe US 40 Alternate.

The contractor will perform the work in phases to maintain accessibility during construction. Crews will guide motorists through the work zone by using cones, barrels, signs and a flagging operations, when needed.  Motorists should expect to see crews working Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.  More than 11,000 motorists use this portion of US 40 Alternate, each day. Weather permitting, crews will complete the two-mile project summer 2019.

 

 

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 style 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. Work Zone Safety is in Your Hands.

Maryland drivers can also know before they go by calling 511 or visiting www.md511.org for live traffic updates, including construction delays and lane closures.