(November 24, 2014) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is placing a new permanent roundabout traffic pattern into operation on Monday, December 1, at 6 a.m. at the roundabout under construction at the intersection of MD 822 (UMES Boulevard) and MD 675 (Somerset Avenue), in Princess Anne, Somerset County.

Temporary lane markings, symbols and directional signs will assists drivers as they drive through the roundabout.  Construction of the UMES Boulevard roundabout will continue through the winter and be completed in spring 2015. After the new traffic pattern is put into place, SHA will install concrete splinter islands at all four entrances which will force drivers to slow down s and guide them through the new traffic pattern.  Crews will also construct curb and gutter, concrete entrances and a sidewalk immediately adjacent to the roadways served by the new roundabout.

New water and sewer lines and new stormwater drainage pipes for the project in Princess Anne are 95 percent complete. SHA will also build a large concrete circular island in the middle of the roundabout, so motorists should expect short delays of no more than a few minutes. Other winter and early spring work will include final paving of the roundabout and tie-ins to UMES Boulevard and Somerset Avenue. . The traffic pattern is identical to the one in place at the nearby roundabout in the Town of Fruitland; just north in Wicomico County, except the new roundabout in Princess Anne is larger.

While SHA and its transportation 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 and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.  Slow down and don’t follow too closely. Safe driving. Safe work zones. For everyone!