$93 Million Project Expands Traffic Capacity, Reduces Congestion and Enhances Safety for Commuters, Residents and Businesses
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) earlier this week announced completion of a $93 million project to reconstruct and expand the I-270/MD 85 (Buckeystown Pike) interchange in Frederick County. This project enhances safety, reduces congestion and expands traffic capacity in this heavily traveled residential and commercial area.
“For the past eight years, our administration has invested in transportation solutions that reduce congestion and keep our citizens and economy moving forward,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “This new interchange provides much-needed relief for tens of thousands of Frederick County residents, commuters and commercial vehicle drivers traveling through this area every day.”
In 2015, Governor Hogan added funding for Frederick County’s top priority project as part of his administration’s record investment in roads and bridges. Two poorly rated bridges on I-270 over MD 85, both built in 1950, were replaced. MDOT SHA contractor Joseph B. Fay Company, of Glen Burnie, removed the two bridges and constructed a new single, three-span structure. Frederick County provided $1.5 million to partially fund project engineering.
Under the new configuration, northbound MD 85 traffic now accesses northbound I-270 via an innovative design known as a partial diverging diamond. The interchange utilizes traffic signals to allow vehicles to cross in opposing directions, efficiently moving large volumes of traffic and increasing safety. Other improvements include:
- Widening of MD 85 with an additional lane in each direction between Spectrum Drive and just north of Crestwood Boulevard/Shockley Drive.
- A new median on MD 85 to separate northbound and southbound traffic.
- New sidewalks and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps.
- New bicycle lanes.
- Wider exit ramps to and from northbound and southbound I-270.
- New stormwater structures and pipes to improve area drainage.
“The new I-270/MD 85 interchange provides a safer and less congested route for all users and will boost economic vitality and opportunity across the region,” said MDOT Secretary James F. Ports, Jr., who took part in a ribbon cutting for the project Monday along MD 85. “We really appreciate our partners in Frederick County who worked with MDOT SHA to deliver a project that’s innovative and will accommodate traffic today and in the future.”
Average daily traffic on I-270 over MD 85 is currently about 90,000, vehicles and is projected to grow to an estimated 130,000 vehicles by 2030. Traffic volume on MD 85 is currently 43,000 vehicles a day and is expected to increase to 52,000 vehicles by 2030.
“The benefit of this project was realized through a great partnership between the state, county, the contractor and the local community,” said MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith. “Our success in building these types of improvements under traffic and then implementing the new configuration is a testament to the collaboration and teamwork of everyone in the corridor.”
Learn more about the project by clicking here. Watch the video showing the completed project by clicking here.
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
