Motorists Should Expect Shoulder Closures along US 1 Throughout Project          
          
(May 23, 2008) - As part of the overall effort to keep Maryland’s bridges safe and in good condition, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) recently began a $360,000 cleaning and painting project to improve the US 1 (Conowingo Road) Bridge over Octoraro Creek. The project will be completed fall 2008, weather permitting.           
          
Scheduled work includes painting the bridge superstructure (the steel beams that support the road surface on the bridge). As part of SHA’s ongoing environmental stewardship efforts, a containment system will be in place to prevent project debris from entering the Octoraro Creek.           
          
Most of the work will be performed under the bridge with minimal impact to the traveling public. Motorists should expect permanent shoulder closures along both directions of US 1 over Octoraro Creek throughout the duration of the cleaning and painting project. Motorists may also encounter single lane closures during off peak hours.          
          
More than 11,600 vehicles use Conowingo Road each day. Throughout the duration of the project, motorists can expect to see traffic guided by changeable message signs, barriers, cones and drums.           
          
SHA awarded the contract to Seaway Coatings, Inc. of Baltimore. SHA thanks motorists for their patience and reminds them to buckle up, obey posted speed limits and use caution while driving through the work zone. Citizens who have questions about US 1 or any other State numbered roadways in Cecil County may call SHA’s District 2 office toll free at 1-800-637-9740.           
          
During the next several months, when warmer temperatures dominate, work zones will be an increasingly familiar sight along state and local roadways. On any one day, there could be more than 350 work zones. Remember that work zones are not only large construction projects possibly taking years to complete, but smaller, mobile operations such as mowing, pothole repair and litter pick ups. When workers are on the road, THINK ORANGE, which is the color of construction signs, barrels and warning devices. Please slow down, stay alert and expect the unexpected. Choose to make work zone safety your business at choosesafetyforlife.com.          
          
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