(December 10, 2014) – Traffic on northbound I-81 will be detoured off and back onto the highway using the ramps at exit 1 (MD 63/MD 68) in Washington County this Thursday night, December 11, due to roadway repair  work. The detour will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday and crews will open all lanes by 4 a.m. Friday.

Motorists should use caution and allow extra time when traveling through the area on either I-81 or MD 68. The detour is necessary because the pavement to be patched overlaps both of the two northbound lanes. The work will be completed by C. William Hetzer Inc. of Hagerstown under an areawide contract for pavement work throughout Washington County.

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!