Safety to be improved with ADA ramp and Pedestrian Signal Upgrades; Project Made Possible through ARRA Funding

(March 31, 2010) – Next week, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will begin a $1.9 million safety and resurfacing project along MD 650 (New Hampshire Avenue) between the DC line and MD 410 (East West Highway) in Takoma Park, Prince George’s County.  Weather permitting, construction will be complete spring 2011.

The project includes removing the top layer of asphalt and resurfacing the existing roadway.  Other work includes cleaning and repairing existing storm drain inlets and pipes, replacing guardrails, concrete medians, curb and gutters, and installing new pavement markings.  The pedestrian ramps at the intersection of MD 650 and MD 410 will be upgraded to American with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.  Video detector loops and signal upgrades to audible/countdown pedestrian signals (APS/CPS) will be installed at the intersection of MD 650 and MD 410.  Traffic loop detectors will be repaired at the intersections of MD 650 and Sheridan Street, MD 650 and Ray/Poplar Road, and the Takoma Center entrance.

During construction, motorists will encounter single lane closures along northbound   MD 650 Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., and southbound MD 650 Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.   In addition, there will be single lane closures Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and double lane closures overnight Sunday through Thursday between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the grinding and resurfacing phase of the project.

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.

SHA awarded the contract to F.O. Day Co., Inc.  SHA will provide variable message signs, jersey barrier wall, drums, and arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone.  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.  Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on MD 650, 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.

# # #