(November 22, 2013) –To expedite resurfacing along MD 97 (Georgia Avenue) in downtown Silver Spring, SHA crews will close up to two lanes of traffic on southbound MD 97 between  US 29 (Colesville Road) and MD 390 (16th Street) beginning tonight at 9 p.m. (weather permitting). All traffic lanes will reopen no later than Monday morning at 5 a.m.

The resurfacing work zone is just north of Saturday morning’s Montgomery County Thanksgiving Day Parade route on MD 97 between Ellsworth Drive and Silver Spring Street.

Pedestrians and commuters should prepare for changes within the work zone this weekend such as modifications to pedestrian traffic along MD 97, including directions to safe crossings.

Drivers should plan for extra time and use alternate routes including MD 193 (University Boulevard), MD 410 (East West Highway) and US 29 to avoid delays on MD 97.

The work is part of an ongoing $3.6 million safety and resurfacing project on Georgia Avenue between Eastern Avenue and MD 390. If weather cooperates, the patching should be complete late December. The work involves repairing nearly 60 locations along the 1.75-mile section of MD 97 prior to paving along all lanes of traffic within the project limits next year. 

As crews work to keep work zones safe, 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!

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