July 20, 2017 – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is activating a new traffic signal on US 40 (Pulaski Highway) at Batavia Farms Road this week as part of a $5 million project to enhance pedestrian and driver safety on one of Baltimore County’s busiest highways.

Approximately 38,000 vehicles per day travel the four-lane section of US 40 between Chesaco Avenue and Todds Lane in Rosedale.  In recent years, this segment of Pulaski Highway has experienced a high rate of crashes – nearly seven times that of similar roadways.

MDOT SHA installed the new traffic signal at Batavia Farms Road in tandem with construction of safety upgrades including new sidewalks on both sides of US 40 between Chesaco Avenue and Todds Lane. The improvements included closing the crossing at Lawrence / Lorraine Avenue in May.

“Just trying to walk from point A to B was a challenge in this corridor, which had a high rate of crashes,” said engineer Wendy Wolcott. “Engineers observed pedestrians crossing mid-block with no place to stop if vehicles were turning in and out of businesses. The new design provides sidewalks, a crosswalk and a signal that stops traffic so people can safely cross the road.”

MDOT SHA last resurfaced this one-half mile section of Pulaski Highway in 2000. The safety enhancement project was funded for construction in spring 2015 and the project started late fall 2015.

The project includes construction of the new 5-foot sidewalk in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, curbs, gutters and driveway aprons along US 40; resurfacing and widening the pavement; replacing and repairing traffic barrier end treatments; traffic signal system upgrades; roadway drainage system enhancements; and installation of new reflective roadway signs and pavement markings.

Weather permitting, crews will complete the remainder of the project late summer.