This $127.7 million initiative by the Maryland Department of Transportation played a major role in ensuring safe corridor operations, especially as traffic continues to increase. The area was prone to crashes, as two-lane MD 32 experienced 34 crashes between 2014 and 2016. Transforming the former two-lane undivided highway into a four-lane divided highway was crucial to the goal of reducing crashes. Prior to construction, daily traffic along MD 32 was approximately 30,000 vehicles per day, and it was expected to grow to 52,000 by the year 2040 due to ongoing and planned development in the area. MDOT also eliminated most at-grade intersections within the project limits, improving safety by eliminating conflict points and the potential for crashes at these locations. This project focused on addressing the impact on the roadway by increasing capacity and alleviating congestion, which in turn enhanced safety for pedestrians and bicyclists on secondary roads. This project also contributed to major reforestation efforts – benefiting the environment, as it also included the planting of more than 14,000 trees.
America's Transportation Awards 