(March 1, 2011) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) reminds motorists that work is underway for a $2.4 million safety and resurfacing project on a 1.4 mile section of MD 193 (University Boulevard) between Arcola Avenue and US 29 (Colesville Road) in Montgomery County.  This project ties into two recently completed resurfacing projects between Farragut Avenue and Arcola Avenue.  Weather permitting, the project should be complete this fall.

The project includes grinding, patching and resurfacing all lanes of University Boulevard between Arcola Avenue and US 29.  Other work includes reconstructing existing sidewalks and ramps to comply with ADA standards, cleaning and repairing existing inlets and pipes, repairing and replacing curb and gutters, replacing and repairing existing guardrails, repair existing traffic loop detectors, upgrading pedestrian signals to audible/countdown pedestrian signals (APS/CPS) at the intersection of MD 193 and Dennis Avenue, and installing new pavement markings.

During construction, motorists can expect single lane closures along University Boulevard Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Sunday through Thursday between 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. and double lane closures Sunday through Thursday between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. 

The work is necessary to improve drivability on MD 193 between Northwood High School and Four Corners/Montgomery Blair High School, as well as improve pedestrian access to homes, local businesses, bus stops, and churches.  The pavement is showing signs of deterioration from carrying 38,000 cracked and buckled pavement.  Motorists should expect delays.

SHA will provide variable message signs, drums, and arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone.  When workers are on the road, THINK ORANGE, which is the color of construction signs, barrels and warning devices.  Please slow down, stay alert and expect the unexpected.  Choose Safety for Life and make work zone safety your business at www.choosesafetyforlife.com.

SHA awarded the contract to M. Luis Construction Co.  Citizens who have questions about traffic operations on MD 193, US 29 or other State numbered routes in Montgomery County may call SHA’s District 3 Office at 301-513-7300 or toll free at 1-800-749-0737.  Citizens can also sign up for the District 3 RSS feed http://roads.maryland.gov/pages/districts.aspx?did=d3             
 
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