STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION ACTIVATES UPGRADED TRAFFIC SIGNAL ON US 50 AT CHAPEL ROAD IN EASTON

MDOT SHA Logo

MDOT SHA Logo

(April 29, 2012) – The State Highway Administration (SHA) initiated a new traffic pattern at the US 50 (Ocean Gateway) and Chapel Road intersection in Easton last week. SHA upgraded the existing traffic signal to improve safety for pedestrians and motorists traveling through the intersection.

Pedestrian signals were installed at the intersection to accommodate new sidewalks recently built on Chapel Hill Road that connect to US 50.  The Town of Easton recently completed construction of the new sidewalks. Pedestrians can now cross the intersection with countdown pedestrian signals as well as audible signals to assist the visually impaired.

“SHA is pleased the intersection improvements are complete before the busiest travel months of the year to keep travelers and pedestrians safe,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters.  “Drivers should use extra caution as they adjust to the new traffic pattern.” 

Additionally, new exclusive left-turns are now permitted when turning left from eastbound or westbound US 50 onto Chapel Road.  This type of traffic signal phasing is designed to reduce left turn crashes and increase the overall safety at the intersection.

“This signal change is definitely a step in the right direction for minimizing automobile collisions at this intersection,” said Easton Police Chief David A. Spencer. “The leading cause of crashes at this location is a failure of drivers making left hand turns from US 50 to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic,” Chief Spencer added.  “It is very important with this simultaneous traffic movement that motorists turn left on the green arrow only.”

Motorists are urged to stay alert for the new traffic pattern and to watch for an expected increase in the number of pedestrians crossing Ocean Gateway in Easton.

The $37,200 contract was awarded to Thompson Electric, Inc., of Aberdeen.

Maryland now features FREE 511 traveler information!  Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit: www.md511.org  for current travel information. Sign up to personalize travel route information through MY511 on the website. Remember to use 511 safely - Maryland law restricts hand-held mobile phone use and texting while driving.

SHA is making it easy to get safety tips and information on the go through Twitter@MDSHA and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/MarylandStateHighwayAdministration.

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