Existing Ramp to Westbound I-68 to be Lengthened to Improve Vehicle Merging

(September 19, 2019) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is beginning a project to lengthen the ramp from Greene Street to westbound I-68 (National Freeway) in Cumberland. The $3.6 million project will be complete spring 2020.

MDOT SHA will extend the acceleration lane by nearly one-third of a mile, which will improve motorists’ access to westbound I-68. In addition to extending the acceleration lane, crews will stabilize the roadside slope, install new drainage inlets, pave and restripe the pavement.

MDOT SHA’s contractor, First Fruits Excavating, Inc. of Ridgeley, WV, will begin the project by installing new drainage in the median area. Traffic will be shifted to minimize construction-related delays, but there will be a long-term left lane closure on westbound I-68 at Greene Street. Motorists can expect single and double lane closures Sunday nights through Friday mornings from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. As the project progresses into spring 2020, motorists can expect temporary ramp closures and detours, particularly during paving operations at the end of the work.

 

 

(MDOT SHA graphic: Greene Street ramp to westbound I-68 to be lengthened.)

Approximately 50,000 vehicles use this section of I-68 each day, so motorists should plan extra commute time during the project.

MDOT SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for motorists, as well as our crews. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on driving and, look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slowdown in construction zones.

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 md511.maryland.gov.