Traffic to be Shifted from Temporary Bridge onto New Roadway          
          
(June 8, 2009) – This Thursday, June 11, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will shift traffic along eastbound I-70 from the temporary bridge in the median to the new permanent bridge over Black Rock Road, weather permitting. SHA opened the westbound bridge along I-70 in November 2008.           
          
The $6.7 million project replacing the bridges along eastbound and westbound I-70 will be complete by the end of the year. Remaining work includes removing the temporary road and bridge in the median, and completing final paving along Black Rock Road. As part of the project, SHA lowered the profile of road to provide additional clearance for the new bridge.           
          
More than 60,000 vehicles travel along I-70 each day. Variable message signs and barrels will be placed in advance of the traffic shift to alert motorists. SHA encourages motorists to stay alert in work zones. SHA awarded the contract to Ahern and Associates, Inc. Those who have questions about traffic operations on I-70 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.           
          
SHA reminds motorists to reduce speeds, stay alert and use caution while driving through work zones. Remember work zones include not only large construction projects, but smaller, mobile operations such as pothole repair and litter pick up. When workers are on the road, THINK ORANGE, which is the color of construction signs, barrels and warning devices. Choose to make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.          
          
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