(November 5, 2014) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will close the right two lanes of eastbound I-70 near MD 94 (exit 73- Woodbine Road) in Howard County this weekend after the Friday morning rush hour for emergency pavement repairs. The lane closures will begin at 9 a.m. Friday, November 7, and reopen by Monday, November 10, at 5 a.m.

The work will cover about 1.5 miles of I-70 between MD 94 and the Morgan Station Road overpass (east of MD 94). The left lane of eastbound I-70 will remain open, but motorists should prepare for delays and consider alternate routes. Motorists along eastbound I-70 should consider using MD 27 (exit 68) north to eastbound MD 26 or MD 27 south to eastbound MD 144 as alternate routes.

The lane closures will allow crews to replace the deteriorated concrete sub-base under the roadway. Crews will remove the existing asphalt and concrete, pour new concrete and allow 12 hours for it to set and cure, then place a new asphalt surface and roadway striping.

Motorists with questions about roadwork on I-70 or other state (numbered) routes in Howard County may call SHA’s District 7 Office at 301-624-8100 or 800-635-5119 during business hours. For free traffic and travel information 24-7, visit md511.org or dial 511.

While SHA and its partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert – look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Slow down and don't follow too closely. Safer Driving. Safer Work Zones. For everyone!