​Overnight Shoulder and Lane Closures Expected Through Mid-April 

(March 16, 2023) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is implementing overnight single-lane and shoulder closures along I-70 in Frederick County as a telecommunications company continues its installation of 53,000 feet of fiber optic lines in the highway median. 

The installation began this past Monday, March 13, on I-70 at the Washington County line west of Monument Road, and is continuing along I-70 to the interchange with I-270. Crews will then perform similar work on southbound I-270 to the Montgomery County line. Level 3 Communications, of Colorado, is the contractor for the telecommunication company. The project is expected to be complete by mid-April, weather permitting.

To ensure a safe work zone to protect the contractor and motorists, the State Highway Administration is implementing shoulder and single-lane closures along a section of I-70. Motorists can expect left lane and shoulder closures overnights on eastbound I-70 from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. and on westbound I-70 from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., Sundays through Thursdays. 

The State Highway Administration permits only one lane closure on I-70 at a time. The work on I-270 also will be performed overnight with periodic single-lane closures near the median. The administration understands the closures will inconvenience some travelers and asks all motorists to please stay alert and be patient as you pass through the work zone.