Feedback

This is not a photo of the gridlock caused by vehicles attempting to leave campus at the busy NIH intersection, but it could be. NIH and the State Highway Administration are on the case.

Photo: iStock

Feedback:

Ever since the implementation of a No Turn on Red Light sign on Old Georgetown Rd. and Center Dr., the time to exit campus has greatly increased, particularly at times of heavy traffic. I have noticed over the past few months that cars trying to exit either north or south at that intersection have to wait through several light cycles because cars heading north on Old Georgetown Rd. completely block the exit.

Isn’t there something the county can do to help facilitate the flow of traffic out of the NIH campus? Perhaps the light cycle needs to be longer or better synchronized with the light at OGR and Cedar? Is there someone at the NIH who can help with this situation?

Response from the Office of Research Services

NIH has been in regular contact with the Montgomery County department of transportation and the Maryland State Highway Administration regarding traffic flow and signage issues along Old Georgetown Rd.

During the week beginning Oct. 8, the county implemented traffic light adjustments in the surrounding area in an attempt to resolve some of the backups, particularly for employees trying to exit the campus from Old Georgetown Rd. and Center Dr. during the afternoon peak traffic period.

NIH is also working with SHA to further evaluate the traffic signals and No Turn on Red signs along Old Georgetown Rd. to improve safety and traffic flow for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

November 3, 2017

Vol. LXIX, No. 22

November 3, 2017

Vol. LXIX, No. 22

The NIH Record