I 95 Soundwall

The I-95 ETL Northbound Extension is a major Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) initiative designed to modernize one of the region’s most heavily traveled corridors. The program extends the existing northbound express toll lanes from the MD-43 area through Harford County, reconstructs critical interchange geometry at MD-152 and MD-24, and adds both express and general-purpose capacity to improve safety and reduce long-standing congestion. The first segment, from MD-43 to MD-152, opened in December 2024, with additional upgrades progressing north toward MD-24 as the corridor transformation continues.

For decades, the northbound stretch of I-95 carried thousands of commuters traveling between Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and the growing communities of Harford County. As traffic volumes surged, congestion became a daily frustration- not only for drivers, but for the families living in neighborhoods just beyond the guardrails. When the MDTA moved forward with the I-95 ETL Northbound Extension, one goal was clear: modernize the corridor in a way that improved mobility and protected the quality of life of the people who call this region home.

As the highway footprint expanded, engineers were faced with a new challenge—how to shield nearby homes from increased roadway noise while stabilizing the higher embankments created by the widening. The solution was a continuous noise-barrier and retaining-wall system stretching nearly a mile along the northbound lanes. More than 300 structural posts would form the backbone of this barrier, standing watch between the community and one of the busiest highways in Maryland.

With the posts positioned just feet from fast-moving traffic, exposed to winter deicing salts, stormwater, road spray, and constant vibration, MDTA needed a protective system built for endurance. Hot-dip galvanizing became the obvious choice. Its unmatched corrosion protection, long service life, and minimal maintenance ensured that these posts would remain structurally sound for generations- quietly doing their job, day and night, without the need for costly repair closures that would disrupt commuters and nearby residents alike.

In total, approximately 5,000 feet of galvanized posts were installed, creating a durable and resilient barrier that enhances safety, preserves neighborhood comfort, and supports MDTA’s commitment to long-term, sustainable infrastructure. The project stands as a reminder that thoughtful engineering and the proven reliability of hot-dip galvanizing can strengthen not only a roadway, but the communities that rely on it.