(December 1, 2010) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is closing a section of MD 179 (St. Margaret’s Road) just east of MD 648 (Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard) to replace a pipe along St. Margaret’s Road between Browns Woods Road and Meadow Valley Drive.

Crews are closing both lanes of MD 179 between Friday December 3 and Sunday December 5.  Because of substantial erosion of the shoulder area and limited access around the work site, this closure is necessary for the safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and workers.  Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians should follow the signed detour route.

SHA is replacing an existing 36-inch corrugated metal pipe with a 42-inch reinforced concrete pipe, and constructing of concrete walls to prevent further erosion.  This project originally was planned for spring 2011 but SHA engineers monitoring erosion near the existing pipe are expediting the work as a matter of public safety.

Weather permitting, SHA expects to reopen MD 179 on Monday, December 6.  SHA appreciates the patience of area residents and motorists and encourages everyone to “Think Orange” while driving through highway work zones by obeying the speed limit and remaining alert at all times. Learn more about work zone safety and the Choose Safety for Life campaign at ww.choosesafetyforlife.com.

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