Brace for Lane Closures as Work on MD 5 Begins

Work is beginning on a nearly $10 million streetscape project on MD 5 (Branch Avenue) between Curtis Drive and Southern Avenue (Washington DC line), including the intersection with MD 637 (Naylor Road) in Temple Hills.

Weather permitting; the work should be complete spring 2017.

Crews may close one lane on northbound and southbound MD 5 weekdays between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., as well as in both directions of MD 637, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Drivers should expect single lane closures Sundays through Thursdays from 9 p.m. to 5 p.m. SHA’s contractor for the work is Corinthian Contractors of Upper Marlboro. More than 50,000 vehicles use this section of MD 5 daily.

Through early winter, crews will relocate the water line and are temporarily closing Naylor Road from Good Hope Road to MD 5 Sunday through Thursday, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Drivers should use the signed detour route of Curtis Drive, 28th Parkway and Oxon Run Drive.

According to a release from the Maryland State Highway Administration, some of the improvements include:

· Minor widening of MD 5 and MD 637 where right of way is available for bicycle lanes;

· Reconstructing traffic signals with new mast arms, signal heads and brighter light emitting diode (LED) bulbs at MD 5 and MD 637, MD 5 and Curtis Drive, MD 5 and the access road to the Naylor Road Metro Station and at MD 637 and Suitland Parkway;

· Constructing 9,200 linear feet of handicap-accessible sidewalks and sidewalk ramps along MD 5 and MD 637 to enhance pedestrian safety and access;

· Installing 1,200 linear feet of guardrail;

· Reconstructing concrete medians and traffic islands;

· Improving roadway drainage; and

· Resurfacing MD 5 and MD 637.

“This project improves safety for pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and drivers, while supporting transit-oriented development and Prince George’s County regional efforts,” said Melinda B. Peters, SHA administrator.

The project supports the goals of the Branch Avenue Corridor Sector plan that include:

· Creating a livable, pedestrian-friendly and vibrant community;

· Improving pedestrian links from residential neighborhoods to shops, recreational areas and transit;

· Strengthening and preserving stable residential neighborhoods; and

· Encouraging redevelopment.