(May 14, 2020) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) today activated new pedestrian crossing features where the Matthew Henson Trail crosses MD 586 (Veirs Mill Road) in Montgomery County.

“We are using technology wherever possible to augment safety when it comes to pedestrians crossing busy roadways,” said Acting MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith. “This project features our first pedestrian signal that is equipped with both a call button and sensors that alert drivers to slow down. We are excited to see this new technology in action.”

The existing flashing pedestrian signal will be replaced by a full color traffic signal. Other features will include a continental crosswalk that is more visible to motorists, a straight-line crossing in the median and “passive detection” — a system in which sensors detect pedestrians and bicyclists standing in the flat landing area and activate the pedestrian signal.

MDOT SHA encourages drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to “Be Street Wise,” because pedestrian safety is a two-way street. Motorists should slow down and watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists. Pedestrians should only cross at designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing. Bicyclists should ride with traffic and look out for both motorists and pedestrians.

For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, go to Project Portal. Visit our homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.

Editor's Note

MDOT SHA has a record amount of highway construction projects underway across the state to reduce congestion and improve safety.  From intersection improvements to widening and new interchange construction, MDOT SHA is investing in projects to enhance the commute and daily travel for millions of Marylanders.  MDOT SHA maintains more than 2,500 bridges and 17,000 miles of non-toll state roads – the interstate, US and state numbered routes in Maryland’s 23 counties.