(May 9, 2014) - The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun a 1.6-mile project designed to provide bike-friendly accommodations along MD 170 (Camp Meade Road) and link Linthicum-area neighborhoods with the popular 12.5 mile BWI trail.

The $1.3 million project will improve bike access and safety by adding dedicated bike lanes along some sections of MD 170 and providing bike-use pavement markings and signs throughout the project area, which stretches from MD 648 (Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd.) to MD 762 (Andover Road).

Work includes a reduction of MD 170 from four lanes to two lanes near the I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) interchange, construction of dedicated bike lanes where space permits, striping/marking of shoulders for bike use, installation of bike-related “share the road” signs in sections where shoulder use is not present, resurfacing, drainage inlet repairs and upgrading of sidewalk ramps to current ADA standards.

“This is the first SHA project in Anne Arundel County dedicated exclusively to improving bike access on a state road,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters. “Area residents and bike enthusiasts will soon enjoy a unique link to local businesses as well as the beautiful 12.5 mile trail encircling BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport.  Forward thinking projects like this demonstrate SHA’s commitment to safe, smart integration of pedestrian and bike facilities into our long-term transportation plans.”

SHA is aware of the heavy traffic at the Light Rail station during Ravens and select Orioles games and is investigating possible solutions.

Single-lane closures are possible Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.  Near the end of the project flagging will occur during resurfacing.  Completion is estimated in spring 2015, weather permitting.

Gray & Son of Timonium is the general contractor for this project.  An average of 10,000 vehicles travel this portion of MD 170 each day.  While SHA and its partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify their 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!