New Left-Turn Lanes Will Improve Safety and Traffic Operations at Intersection; Project Made Possible Through Economic Stimulus Funding

(November 10, 2009) – The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) recently began a $1.2 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funded intersection improvement project at MD 26 (Liberty Road) and Klee Mill Road/MD 850 (Old Liberty Road) west of Eldersburg, Carroll County.  SHA anticipates completing the project spring 2010, weather permitting.

SHA will add dedicated left-turn lanes on eastbound and westbound MD 26.  The existing traffic signal will be modified to include a “green arrow” to provide an exclusive left turn.  The new left-turn lanes and signal modifications will improve safety and traffic operations for motorists turning onto Klee Mill Road or Old Liberty Road from MD 26.  SHA will also add acceleration and deceleration lanes on MD 26 in both directions to improve the transition for right-turning motorists accessing or departing Klee Mill Road/Old Liberty Road.

During construction, crews may close lanes on MD 26, Klee Mill Road and Old Liberty Road Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.  SHA will place variable message signs, barrels and temporary signs to guide motorists through the work zone.  Approximately 24,000 vehicles travel on this section of MD 26 daily, motorists should plan for extra travel time during work hours.

This project is made possible through Governor Martin O’Malley’s aggressive management of the requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, bringing critically needed transportation investments to Maryland.  Projects such as these are stimulating Maryland’s economy by supporting hundreds of jobs.  Follow the delivery of these projects at www.recovery.maryland.gov, which tracks every category of ARRA spending and provides contract-level details to the public in an effort to achieve new levels of government transparency and efficiency.

Kibler Construction Company is the contractor for the project.  Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on MD 26, MD 850, or other state numbered routes in Carroll County may call SHA’s District 7 Office at 301-624-8100 or toll free at 1-800-635-5119. 
 

SHA reminds motorists to reduce speeds, stay alert and use caution while driving through work zones.  When workers are on the road, THINK ORANGE, which is the color of construction signs, barrels and warning devices.  Please slow down, stay alert and expect the unexpected.  Choose to make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.

       

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