​ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Hogan administration announced today the start of construction along MD 2/4 (Solomons Island Road) between Fox Run Boulevard and MD 231 (Hallowing Point Road) in Prince Frederick. The project, which is a top priority for Calvert County, will widen the four-lane divided highway into a six-lane divided highway, making the busy corridor safer and providing congestion relief for drivers. The construction project is part of the $2 billion investment in highway and bridge improvements across the state that Governor Larry Hogan announced in June 2015.

“Our administration remains committed to reducing congestion on Maryland’s roads,” said Governor Hogan. “These much-needed improvements, along this major route in Calvert County, will result in less traffic and a safer and more efficient commute for our citizens and visitors.” 

The $29.9 million Phase II will add a third lane in each direction, an acceleration/deceleration lane, a bike lane and a raised center median along MD 2/4. Work includes widening the nearly one-mile section along MD 2/4, adding new turn lanes at the MD 402 (Dares Beach Road) intersection and adding a new traffic signal with turn lanes at the Commerce Lane intersection. Crews will also construct 5-foot-wide sidewalks on northbound and southbound MD 2/4. 

“A better commute through the MD 2/4 corridor in Prince Frederick will improve the quality of life for our customers and improve access to businesses, recreation and retail shopping,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Highway Administrator Greg Slater. “A less congested corridor is a real benefit to Calvert County and all who use this corridor. I thank the county for their partnership as we deliver together for Maryland.”

Adding capacity along Solomons Island Road will bring local and regional benefits. Today, local emergency services travel on MD 2/4 via MD 231 from Charles County to take patients to Calvert Health Medical Center in Prince Frederick, which is located just north of the project limits. Fire engines and ambulances from area counties often get stuck in traffic when the road is blocked by crashes or heavy congestion. The project will widen the roadway in this rapidly growing area where traffic is projected to increase from the current 45,250 to 67,250 vehicles per day by 2035.

Preliminary work for the project began in May. This month, MDOT SHA crews continue utility relocation and grading work along MD 402 (Dares Beach Road) and northbound and southbound MD 2/4. The project was advertised for construction using A + B bidding (Cost +Time); it includes time as a factor when awarding a contract. The project provides an overall value of time and cost savings to the managing agency, contractors and the public. The total cost is used to determine the lowest adjusted bid price and the award of the contract. MDOT SHA’s contractor – Total Civil Construction & Engineering, LLC, of Lanham, Md. – is scheduled to open lanes to traffic in summer 2019.

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