Streetscape Project Reduces Traffic Congestion, Enhances Safety along US 1 in Perry Hall Community
(January 12, 2010) – Nearly 32,000 motorists are enjoying smoother travel and access to local businesses along US 1 (Belair Road) thanks to traffic safety improvements by the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA). Today SHA District Engineer David J. Malkowski joined Senator Kathy Klausmeier, Delegate Joe Boteler, County Executive Jim Smith, community leaders and project task force members to mark the completion of the $1.8 million project to improve US 1 between Cottington Road and Joppa Road/India Avenue in the Perry Hall community. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the new traffic signal serving the Perry Hall Square Shopping center, just north of Cottington Road.
“Highway safety is SHA’s top priority and the US 1 project is a great example of the community, the county and SHA working together to provide a project that improves safety and reduces congestion,” said SHA Administrator Neil J. Pedersen. “Residents and visitors alike will have safer access to businesses, schools and worship centers serving Perry Hall.”
Concept development and design for the US 1 project began in 2004, with elected officials and a community task force providing input on the project, including the relocation of the signal for the Perry Hall Square Shopping Center. This signal was close to the signal for the Joppa Road/India Avenue intersection, contributing to congestion and crashes along US 1. Safety improvements include:
• relocation of the shopping center signal approximately 300 feet south of its original location;
• reconstruction of curb, gutter, and driveways;
• reconstruction of sidewalks and ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards;
• roadway resurfacing;
• installation of new turn lanes and pavement markings;
• traffic signal system upgrades; and landscaping.
Construction work began late fall 2008. SHA activated the new signal for the Perry Hall Square Shopping Center summer 2009 and construction work continued along US 1 through December 2009. The State’s contractor for the project was Melvin Benhoff Sons, Inc. of Baltimore.
The project also includes new decorative pedestrian lighting and community banner poles along northbound US 1 in the vicinity of the Perry Hall Elementary School, with funding contributions from Baltimore County and the Perry Hall/White Marsh Business Association.
SHA thanks the residents of Perry Hall, Baltimore County, and commuters for their patience and cooperation during construction. Those who have questions about traffic operations along US 1 or other State numbered routes in Baltimore County, may call SHA’s District 4 Office at 410-229-2300 or toll free at 1-866-998-0367.
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