​(September 25, 2023) In an ongoing effort to improve work zone safety, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is deploying the Maryland SafeZones Automated Speed Enforcement system beginning today, Monday, September 25, on I-68 (National Freeway). The automated speed enforcement system will be in effect between one mile east of Mountain Road and the Sideling Hill Rest Area in Washington County. 

After a 21-day warning period, Maryland State Police will authorize citations beginning Monday, October 16. At this time, if a vehicle is recorded traveling above the posted speed limit, a citation with a $40 fine may be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle. Motorists are reminded that the speed limit through this work zone will remain 70 mph. 

The enforcement effort supports the one-mile project to stabilize slopes in both directions at the Sideling Hill Rest Stop area. Additional work includes installation of permanent rock fall barrier along I-68, removing and replacing traffic barriers, clearing loose materials from existing ditches and from the eroded slopes, cleaning of inlets and pipes and sign upgrades. The project should be complete summer 2024, weather permitting. 

Contractor Carl Belt Inc., of Cumberland, is performing the work. Intermittent lane closures may occur during the project. Work will take place behind the barrier wall with little impact on traffic. Portable variable message signs, temporary traffic signs an​d barrels will guide motorists through the work zone.

Maryland SafeZones supports the State Highway Administration, Maryland State Police and Maryland Transportation Authority Police in the statewide effort to improve work zone safety. Maryland SafeZones goal is to encourage a change in driver behavior and to increase driver awareness of the impacts of speed-related crashes in work zones. 

The State Highway Administration understands temporary and ramp closures can be an inconvenience, but the work is necessary to maintain and improve the transportation system for all. Drivers are asked to stay alert, stay focused, look for reduced speed limits as well as driving pattern changes, and slow down in construction zones.

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to the project portal. Visit the homepage at roads.maryland.gov. For real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov​.