​Intersection to Receive Pedestrian Crossing Signals and Crosswalks 

(June 30, 2022) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is installing a new traffic signal system at the US 29 (Columbia Pike)/Oak Leaf Drive intersection in White Oak to help improve operations, safety and pedestrian access. Work is expected to be completed by the fall, weather permitting.  

In addition to a full-color traffic signal, the nearly $200,000 project includes a marked crossing on the south side across US 29, with countdown pedestrian signals and accessible pedestrian signals activated by push buttons. The system will significantly improve pedestrian safety at this busy location. The signal will include a protected left-turn phase for northbound US 29 left turns onto Oak Leaf Drive to improve overall traffic operations. 

US 29 at Oak Leaf Drive is a six-lane major arterial route with a posted speed limit of 45 mph. Approximately 60,300 vehicles use this section of US 29 each day. The closest protected pedestrian crossing at this location is 800 feet to the south of Oak Leaf Drive at Prelude Drive. However, pedestrians cross US 29 near Oak Leaf Drive to access nearby bus stops.  

During work to install the new traffic signal system, motorists can expect daytime off-peak single-lane closures on US 29 and Oak Leaf Drive between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Motorists should plan extra travel time during work hours. MDOT SHA’s contractor for the project is McLean Contracting Co., of Glen Burnie.  

MDOT SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on driving, and look for reduced speed limits as well as other driving pattern changes. Please drive like you work here and slow down in construction zones.