14-mile traffic near Bay Bridge could exist in 2040
14 miles of back-up traffic along the eastbound stretch of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge could be considered normal by the year 2040, according to a new report released by the Maryland Transportation Authority (“MDTA”).
“14 miles would be ridiculous.” Says Salisbury resident Pat Donnelly. “That would probably add a couple hours or so on your travel time, which would discourage a lot of people from going to the beach, I’m sure.”
The study cites a growing number of travelers, especially during the summer. Data from 2013 shows that motorists cross the bay bridge nearly 96,000 times on peak summer days but it’s expected to swell up to nearly 126,000 thousand in 25 years.
MDTA executive director Milton Chaffee explains the growth is something the agency wants to address.
“We recognize there’s a need to address the traffic capacity at the Bay Bridge.” Says Chaffee. “We realize the traffic is going to continue to grow and it’s going to grow pretty exponentially until 2040.”
The options suggest either widening or replacing part of the existing structure. According to the report, one option would be to construct a third three-lane bridge. Another option would be to demolish the existing eastbound Bay Bridge and replace it with 5 new lanes. Option three includes tearing down both east and west to make room for eight lanes. The fourth option would be to widen the eastbound structure to three lanes.
Chaffee says the most expensive option according is to build the eight-lane bridge, which would cost about 5.6 billion dollars.
We’re told this report has been delivered to the office of Maryland governor Larry Hogan.
In a statement sent to 47ABC, a spokesperson from the Hogan administration says “The safety and longevity of the Bay Bridge are incredibly important to the thousands of Marylanders and visitors who travel to home, work, and vacation. The administration looks forward to reviewing the study.”
Crisfield resident Reba Tull says she likes the option of a completely new bridge.
“I think they should plan not just for the present traffic but look ahead, what’s going to be? What do they expect 50 years from now? And build for that.” Says Tull.
So far, there is no definite timeline for any of the options; however, Maryland Senator Jim Mathias tells 47 ABC he has pre-filed a senate bill for the upcoming Maryland General Assembly.
According to Mathias, it would authorize the MDTA to set aside funds for an environmental impact study before pursuing a third bridge crossing.
Senator Mathias says “This action is vital and assures the citizens and businesses of the Eastern Shore and throughout all of Maryland that they will have the transportation infrastructure necessary to provide for their safe and successful future”.
For a copy of the report, click here.
