Motorists Should Expect Major Delays along I-70 in Washington County and Plan for Extra Travel Time          
          
(May 16, 2008) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration has closed the left lane along westbound I-70 approximately one mile west of MD 66 (Mapleville Road (exit #35) in Washington County. The closure is necessary to repair a sinkhole that has developed in the median along I-70 west of Mapleville Road. SHA will keep the right lane open, but may temporarily close all westbound lanes, which will necessitate a posted detour. Motorists are urged to use the alternate routes, such as US 40 (National Pike).          
          
The detours, if implemented, will direct motorists to exit onto MD 66/Mapleville Road (exit #35) to westbound US 40 and back to I-70.           
          
Crews are working hard to fill and stabilize the sinkhole by Friday’s afternoon rush hour, weather permitting.          
          
SHA appreciates motorists’ patience as we work to re-open the travel lanes along westbound I-70. Motorists are urged to log onto www.marylandroads.com and click the CHART icon for the latest travel conditions.          
          
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