The fiscal challenges continue for the State of Maryland but Transportation Secretary Beverley K. Swaim-Staley told the Calvert County Commissioners Sept. 20 she believes the situation is improving. Still, the secretary, who was visiting Calvert as part of the Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) annual “road show,” the challenges remain to establish long-term funding for the state’s numerous road, bridge and transit projects. Swaim-Staley indicated that long-term funding would likely come in the form of additional federal transportation aid but a local business partnership component might be necessary to ensure stability.
“If we are going to address our transportation needs we are going to have to do it in a different manner,” said Swaim-Staley.
In terms of procuring additional federal funds for Maryland’s transportation projects, Swaim-Staley reported “we do continue to work with our [congressional] delegation.”
The secretary said she was hopeful the Obama Administration’s Jobs Bill will find approval with Congress since it includes fund transit projects and “system preservation.”
Regarding Calvert’s transportation needs, Swaim-Staley acknowledged that the eventual replacement of the Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge with a wider span is high on the county’s list. “I know the bridge is a priority for the whole region,” she said. “Our priorities are based on your priorities.”
Diane Ratcliff of the Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA) reported state officials continue to negotiate with property owners in Dunkirk to acquire land for Calvert’s next Park and Ride facility. “We’re very proactive,” said Ratcliff.
“Our top priority is safety,” said State Highway Administration (SHA) Deputy Administrator Doug Simmons, who explained various projects designed to enhance pedestrian safety, such as sidewalk repair are planned for fiscal year (FY) 2012. Other ancillary components such as signs and guardrails will be replaced.
While the Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge replacement project “is moving forward with planning,” Simmons reported the current span is still a key link and will receive some restoration work beginning next spring. “Most of the work on this project will be at night,” said Simmons.
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