(March 21, 2014) – Winter is winding down and the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is warming up for a busy resurfacing season as SHA and contractor crews continue to patch roadways in advance of major paving operations.

In the Annapolis and Crownsville areas of Anne Arundel County, SHA will begin patching nearly four miles of MD 178 (Generals Highway) from Housley Road/Bestgate Road to Crownsville Road this Monday, March 24. Work hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, and motorists should expect single lane closures and flagging operations during these times. This work is expected to take several weeks, weather permitting.

Asphalt patching will address potholes and ruts; this work can be done under dry conditions with temperatures in the 30-40 degree Fahrenheit range. Resurfacing which includes milling, paving, and restriping, will follow as temperatures allow. To achieve the best ride surface, paving generally requires air temperatures above 50 degrees.

Nearly 18,000 vehicles travel this part of MD 178 each day. This work is part of a $9.4 million, multiple-location resurfacing contract awarded to Reliable Contracting of Millersville.

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!