MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — After years of testing, the Maryland State Highway Administration announced that ramp metering signals along northbound I-270 are fully operational. The new signals aim to streamline merging and cut morning commutes by up to 30 minutes.
It’s part of the the I-270 Innovative Congestion Management Project, an effort to reduce recurring congestion and improve travel time reliability along the heavily traveled 34.4-mile corridor between I-70 in Frederick County and I-495 in Montgomery County.
How do they work?
The system uses sensors that detect real-time traffic conditions and activate traffic signals, when needed, to more efficiently control how traffic merges onto I-270. This will allow motorists to merge safely onto I-270 while minimizing delay and reducing congestion, MDSHA said in a release.
When ramp metering is in operation:
- Motorists will see a warning sign with flashing beacons.
- When the beacons are activated, motorists should be prepared to stop at the stop line.
- Once the signal turns green, drivers may proceed on the ramp and merge onto the highway.
- The signal will allow one car at a time to go from each lane, optimizing traffic flow onto I-270.
Why is ramp metering needed?
The ramp meters are expected to save some drivers up to 30 minutes during the morning commute…