New Ramp Meters To Take Effect This Week In MoCo

ROCKVILLE, MD — Ramp metering is expected to get underway Tuesday at 16 ramps located on the northbound lanes of Interstate 270 in Montgomery and Frederick counties.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration said the change would take effect, weather permitting, as the agency looks for new ways to manage traffic congestion and improve travel times between Interstates 70 and 495.

"When ramp metering is in operation, motorists will encounter advance warning signs with flashing beacons indicating the signals are active," reads a release issued by the department.

"Drivers on ramps merging onto I-270 should be prepared to stop at the marked stop line on the ramp. When the signal turns green, motorists may proceed and merge onto I-270."

The initiative, which will allow cars to merge onto the interstate one car at a time, will run daily between 4 a.m. and 11 p.m.

Officials believe the move will help shave about 30 minutes off travel times for morning commuters.