(February 13, 2018) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will switch traffic at the MD 97 (Georgia Avenue)/Randolph Road intersection into a new configuration beginning at 6 a.m., Saturday, February 17.

The work is part of the $39.6 million interchange construction project in Montgomery County. The new traffic pattern will be in effect by 7 p.m.

In case of inclement weather, the work will take place on Saturday, February 24.

The shift will enable drivers on eastbound Randolph Road to access the two far left lanes through the new tunnel underneath Georgia Avenue continuing eastbound Randolph Road. The shift improves access to the Glenmont Shopping Plaza, where drivers will use the far-left lane to enter the shopping center.

Drivers who wish to access either direction of MD 97 from eastbound Randolph Road should bear right at the split and make either a left turn onto northbound MD 97 or a right turn onto southbound MD 97. Drivers traveling in the through lanes on eastbound Randolph Road past the MD 97/Randolph Road intersection will only be allowed to make a right turn at the next intersection at Randolph Road and Glenmont Circle.

‘We encourage motorists and pedestrians to exercise additional caution and safety during the adjustment period for the new traffic pattern at this busy intersection.” said Brian Young, District 3 Engineer.

New pavement markings, sign installation and traffic signal work are key parts of the traffic switch.  There will be no lane closures during the traffic switch. Law enforcement will direct traffic through the intersection. Drivers should expect delays and use alternate routes, including MD 185(Connecticut Avenue).  

 

 

 

(MDOT SHA photo: New tunnel that carries Randolph Road under MD 97 (Georgia Avenue) in Silver Spring.)

While MDOT 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. For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, click on Road Ready, MDOT SHA's electronic construction brochure. For a look at real-time commute conditions, log onto www.md511.org.