August 24, 2006

Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Governor

Michael S. Steele Lt. Governor

Robert L. Flanagan Secretary

James F. Ports, Jr. Deputy Secretary

Maryland Department of Transportation The Secretary's Office

Rosario J. Ideo, President

Citizens Association of South Bowie Post Office Box 1604

Bowie, Maryland 20717

Dear Mr. Ideo:

Thank you for your most recent correspondence to State Highway Administrator Neil Pedersen, District Engineer, Darrell B. Mobley and me regarding traffic operations along US 301 (Crain Highway), at Pointer Ridge Drive, in Prince George's County. We appreciate your continued interest in safety at this location.

The purpose of traffic studies is not always clear to those who believe that quick action best prevents property damage, serious injuries, or worse. Please be assured that safety is the first and foremost priority of this Department and the State Highway Administration (SHA). As those responsible for public safety on the roads under their care, SHA's Traffic Engineers know that they must carefully study a location before they can determine the most appropriate action. "Appropriate" is a key concept, because any decision may have inherent risks, and the wrong decision could lessen safety rather than enhance it.

Based on SHA's review, I support SHA's conclusion that a channelization barrier is not warranted at this time. Last February's crash occurred on northbound US 301 at the gravel driveway, directly opposite to Pointer Ridge Drive. A channelized left-turn on southbound US 301 would not have prevented this collision. A review of data for 2003-2005 showed that southbound US 301 did not experience a crash pattern that a left-turn channelization barrier would have improved. In addition, as State Highway Administrator Neil J. Pedersen mentioned in his July 7 letter, a weaving analysis revealed no operational deficiencies on southbound US 301.

Having said this, I assure you that SHA will continue to monitor this intersection for possible future action. In the meantime, if you would like a traffic engineer to meet with you on site, please contact SHA's District Office at 301-513-7359 and speak with Mr. Brian Young, Assistant District Engineer-Traffic. He will be more than happy to help make these arrangements.

Thank you, again, for your letter. If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Darrell B. Mobley, District Engineer, SHA at 301-513-7311, toll-free 800-749­ 0737 or via email atdmobley@sha.state.md.us. SHA will be pleased to assist you.

Mr. Neil J. Pedersen, Administrator, SHA

My telephone number is 410-865-1000

Toll Free Number 1--888-713-1414 TTY User Call Via MD Relay 7201 Corporate Center Drive, Hanover, Maryland 21076