Project Will Improve Pedestrian Safety at Six Major Intersections in Montgomery County; Project Made Possible Through ARRA Funding

(January 25, 2009) – Next week, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will begin a $1 million traffic signal reconstruction project on US 29 (Georgia Avenue) between MD 410 (East West Highway) and Wayne Avenue in Silver Spring, Montgomery County.  Weather permitting, the project should be complete summer 2011.

SHA will upgrade the existing signals to include accessible/countdown pedestrian signals (APS/CPS).  Other work includes upgrading existing sidewalk ramps to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, painting the signal poles and upgrading lighting to provide improved visibility of pedestrian crosswalks. SHA is enhancing the following intersections along US 29:

• MD 410/Burlington Avenue/13th Street
• Sligo Avenue
• Silver Spring Avenue
• Thayer Avenue
• Bonifant Avenue, and
• Wayne Avenue.

Drivers will encounter daytime, single lane closures Monday through Friday during off peak hours.  Daytime lane closures are also possible on weekends.  Safe pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction.  SHA will provide variable message signs, drums, and arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone.  Traffic Systems, Inc. is the contractor for the project.

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 Safety for Life and make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com

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.

Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on US 29, MD 410 or other state numbered routes in Montgomery County may call SHA’s District 3 Office at 301-513-7300 or toll free at 1-800-749-0737.              

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