This project provides for installation of guardrail where it is determined to be required, upgrading identified deficient and/or non-compliant end treatments to meet current Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) standards, replacement of end treatments and guardrail damaged beyond repair as a result of vehicle crashes or other impacts, and the establishment of a 25-year lifecycle replacement program.

Guardrails reduce the severity of run-off-the-road crashes, reduce the likelihood of collisions with fixed objects, and protect embankments. Damaged or missing guardrails and deficient end treatments present a hazard to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Guardrails have a finite service life and must be replaced at the end of their service life or when damaged to provide safety benefits for all road users. Two separate assessments covering 80 County roadways identified the need for end treatment replacement at approximately 1,550 locations. To date, approximately 570 locations have been addressed.

Expenditures will continue indefinitely.

Federal Highway Administration, Maryland State Highway Administration, Montgomery County Public Schools