STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION BEGINS FINAL RESURFACING ON MD 97 IN SILVER SPRING

MDOT SHA Logo

MDOT SHA Logo

(April 3, 2014) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun the final resurfacing phase on MD 97 (Georgia Avenue) between Eastern Avenue and MD 390 (16th Street) in downtown Silver Spring. The work is part of a $3.6 million safety and resurfacing project, which should be complete by late summer, weather permitting.

The remaining work this spring involves removal and replacement of the top layer of asphalt, adding new asphalt and placing final pavement markings. Crews will mill and resurface southbound MD 97 first, then proceed on the northbound side of the road. The resurfacing work will improve the road quality on MD 97.

Through April 1, crews have completed portions of curb and gutter, driveway construction and sidewalk and ramp work for Americans With Disability Act (ADA) compliance. This spring and summer, crews will finish work on these items and will also complete median, inlet and pipe cleaning activities.

SHA’s contractor may temporarily close one lane within the project limits weekdays, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and up to two lanes, overnight, Sunday through Thursday, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. All work is weather permitting. Residents and travelers are advised that construction equipment can be loud and disruptive. SHA asks for the patience of the public as crews work to make improvements along MD 97.

During construction, there may be limited street parking in small segments of downtown Silver Spring. Nearly 41,000 motorists use this heavily traveled section of MD 97 daily. Pedestrian traffic will be maintained at all times during construction. Signage will direct pedestrians to safe crossings within the project limits. SHA is using electronic message boards, construction cones, barrels, arrow boards and a flagging operation to direct motorists through the work zone.

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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