(September 30, 2025) – The City of Laurel’s Department of Public Works has completed the third phase of a multi-year safety initiative along Main Street, aimed at improving visibility and pedestrian safety at key intersections.
Residents may have noticed the recently constructed curbed islands with large stones—part of an effort launched in Spring 2023 to address safety concerns caused by poor sight lines from vehicles parked too close to corners. Following an engineering study, the City implemented a three-phase plan:
- Phase 1 introduced reflective posts and updated "No Parking" signage, which improved visibility but were frequently damaged.
- Phase 2 added durable thermoplastic striping to mark no-parking zones, though some violations persisted, prompting increased enforcement.
- Phase 3, launched in July 2025, replaced striping with landscaped concrete curb islands. Large stones were added after vehicles drove through some of the islands, and new signage and reflectors further enhance safety.
Landscaping will be completed in Spring 2026, incorporating Black-Eyed Susans to celebrate both the 2026 Preakness Stakes at Laurel Racetrack and the United States’ 250th Anniversary.
The City thanks residents for their continued support as these long-term safety improvements are finalized.
For more information, contact the Department of Public Works at dpw@laurel.md.us or call (301) 725-0088.