Additional Lane Closures Along the Jones Falls Expressway

On Saturday, April 28, 2012 a double left lane closure will be implemented along both the northbound and southbound Jones Falls Expressway in the vicinity of 29^th Street from 6:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. 

These lanes closures are needed for emergency repairs to collapsed drainage pipes that are located underneath of the expressway, which have caused significant washout and undermining conditions.  Once the double lane closures are lifted at 12:00 noon, a single left lane closure will remain in effect in each direction along the expressway until construction is complete. Repair work is expected to take approximately six to eight weeks. However, the duration of construction is uncertain at this time, and the lane closures could extend beyond this period.

As repair work progresses, adjacent lanes of travel may be narrowed through the construction zone for the safety of work crews. In addition, adjacent travel lanes and possible full closures of the expressway may be implemented during evening and late night hours.

These lane closures will cause significant delays along the expressway, particularly during the morning and afternoon peak hours. The remaining two lanes in each direction will not provide sufficient capacity to accommodate traffic and will result in serious congestion.

To avoid delays during construction, motorists are strongly advised to use alternate routes when trying to access the downtown area during peak hours. Commuters should also consider using alternate modes of travel including the Light Rail and Metro Subway. If possible, motorists should modify their travel times to “come early and stay late" in order to avoid delays.

TRANSIT OPTIONS:  The MTA operates the Metro which serves Northwest Baltimore City and County, and the Central Light Rail which serves points north. Note that the Metro and Light Rail are completely unaffected by traffic conditions. In addition, there are several express and local bus options. Transit information is available by calling 410-539-5000 or at www.mtamaryland.gov.

  

ALTERNATE ROUTES:  For those who continue drive, there are a number of alternate routes that can be utilized:

• For motorists coming to or from Northwest Baltimore or northwest Baltimore County (including Pikesville, Reisterstown and Randallstown), alternate routes are Liberty Road/Liberty Heights Avenue, Reisterstown Road and Park Heights Avenue.

• For motorists coming to or from North Baltimore City or County (including Towson, Timonium and Cockeysville), alternate routes are Charles Street, York Road and Loch Raven Boulevard.

• For motorists coming to or from Northeast Baltimore City and County (including Parkville, Overlea and Perry Hall), alternate routes are Hillen Road/Perring Parkway, Harford Road and Belair Road.

The discovery of this safety hazard highlights not only the importance of routine maintenance and inspection, but the need for continued investment in our aging public infrastructure.

For more information, contact Adrienne Barnes or Kathy Chopper at (410) 361-9296.

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