Road Improvement Projects Will Impact Summer Travel in Maryland

Summer in Maryland brings the familiar sight of orange cones and construction crews as road improvement projects ramp up. As warmer weather allows for asphalt work, crews are busy milling and repaving streets across the region, while also tackling long-term projects aimed at enhancing major highways.

Central Maryland commuters should be particularly alert to ongoing construction on the Beltway. The State Highway Administration is transforming the inside shoulders into peak-hour travel lanes along a 19-mile stretch from the I-70 interchange to the I-95 interchange. Currently, about 62% of this $192 million project is complete, with an expected finish date in 2028. Until then, drivers can expect reduced speed limits, lane closures, and potential delays, especially on weekends.

Another significant project is taking place at the Bay Bridge, where crews are working overnight to replace the deck of the eastbound span. This $252 million project, which is in its final phase, is projected to conclude in late 2027. During construction, the eastbound span will be closed from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., allowing for two-way traffic on the westbound span, minimizing daytime disruptions for travelers heading to Ocean City.

In addition, the extension of the northbound I-95 tolled express lanes in Harford County is nearing completion. The $1.1 billion project has finished 7 miles in Baltimore County, with the extension to MD-24 expected to open by the end of 2027. Drivers should be aware of new traffic patterns on the southbound side near the interchange, which will remain in place through the fall.

Maryland's road conditions have drawn attention, with recent reports indicating that approximately 30% of the state's roads are in poor condition, with Baltimore experiencing even higher rates of road deficiencies. The State Highway Administration aims to resurface 700 lane miles and maintain 2,300 lane miles this year, while Baltimore's local transportation department is targeting 90.5 lane miles for resurfacing.

For those wishing to track ongoing projects, an interactive map is available on the State Highway Administration's project portal.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).