New Turn Lane to Improve Traffic Flow at Busy Westminster Intersection

(May 12, 2017) –The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is beginning a project to add a deceleration lane on MD 31 (New Windsor Road) at Tahoma Farm Road in Westminster, Carroll County.  Weather permitting, the $1.7 million project will be complete late-summer.

SHA’s contractor, C.J. Miller, LLC. of Hampstead, will construct a 700-foot westbound deceleration lane on MD 31, which will improve safety and enhance intersection operations.  Other work on the project includes installation of storm water management systems and sidewalk modifications. Crews will also resurface MD 31 between Tahoma Farm Road and Medford Road.

Most of the work on the project will take place behind temporary barrier wall, which will reduce construction-related delays.  Motorists can expect single lane closures on MD 31 while temporary concrete barrier is installed and drivers will be guided by flaggers between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. during this phase of the project.  Approximately 6,300 motorists use this section of New Windsor Road each day.

The e-Road Ready 2017 electronic construction brochure is now available by clicking here.  The e-brochure highlights major road construction and maintenance projects in each of MDOT SHA’s seven engineering districts which cover Maryland’s 23 counties.

While SHA and its transportation partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver need to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.  Slow down and don’t follow too closely. Work Zone Safety is in Your Hands.

Maryland drivers can also know before they go by calling 511 or visiting www.md511.org for live traffic updates, including construction delays and lane closures.

Editor’s note: MDOT SHA has a record amount of highway construction projects underway across the state to reduce congestion and improve safety.  From intersection improvements to widening and new interchange construction, MDOT SHA is investing in projects to enhance the commute and daily travel for millions of Marylanders.  MDOT SHA maintains 17,000 miles of non-toll state roads – the interstate, US and state numbered routes in Maryland’s 23 counties.