October 3rd, 2016 by WCBC Radio

The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will improve more than three miles of I-68 (National Freeway) between Orleans Road and the Washington County line in Allegany County.  Weather permitting, the $4.6 million project will be complete summer 2017.

SHA’s contractor, P & W Excavating, Inc. of McConnellsburg, PA, will patch, grind (remove top layer of asphalt), pave and stripe I-68.  Additionally, SHA will temporarily close and reconstruct the truck “climbing lane” on westbound I-68 west of the exit 72 (US 40/Old National Pike) interchange.  SHA will fortify the lane with concrete to protect the pavement from damage when heavy trucks maneuver up the incline of the mountain.

“This is a key route for the trucking industry, which accounts for a significant amount of the daily traffic volume on this roadway,” said Anthony K. Crawford, SHA District 6 Engineer. “We ask that all motorists pay careful attention and slow down through the work zone during construction.” 

Crews will close single lanes and shoulders as needed, Monday – Friday between sunrise and sunset.  Approximately 17,000 vehicles travel this portion of I-68 daily and a significant portion of traffic is comprised of trucks. Motorists should plan extra travel time during the work.  SHA will use barrels, dynamic message signs and arrow boards to guide motorists through the work zone.

While SHA and its transportation 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 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.

A complete updated listing of current roadway projects is included in e-Road Ready 2016, the online brochure. 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. Those who have questions about SHA projects in Washington County may call the SHA District 6 Office at 301-729-8400, toll-free at 1-800-760-7138 or send email to shadistrict6@sha.state.md.us