Ellicott City residents can look forward to enhanced walkability and safety as a new construction project kicks off to add sidewalks and storm drains on Northfield Road. Announced by Howard County, the project is part of the county's WalkHoward plan, aiming to create better connections between neighborhoods and local schools. The focus of this latest phase will be the installation of sidewalks on the south side of Northfield Road, bridging the gap between Northfield Elementary School, Dunloggin Middle School, and the nearby Columbia Road.
Started on August 19th, the initiative is anticipated to wrap up by October 1st, in hopes of weather being on the builders' side. In a statement obtained by Howard County Government’s news release, Calvin Ball, Howard County Executive, underscored the broader benefits of such projects, "Sidewalks create neighborhood connections and provide our residents safe and healthy transportation options." Ball highlighted a substantial fiscal commitment to such infrastructure, "my Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget included $14.7 million in County funding for sidewalks, bike lanes, pathways and other Complete Streets infrastructure that makes projects like this possible."
With the eastbound lane expected to undergo temporary closures, signs, and flagging operations will be implemented to manage traffic flow effectively during construction hours, which run from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with reduced work hours once the school year begins. To ensure safety through the work zones, Howard County urges drivers to stay vigilant, adhere to reduced speed limits, and maintain a safe following distance through construction areas.
For those seeking more detail on the sidewalk construction initiative, the county directs inquiries to Public Works Customer Service. Additional information regarding Capital Project K-5035 can be accessed by calling 410-313-3440 or by email at [email protected].
