OXON HILL, Md. — Big changes are coming to one of Prince George’s County’s busiest — and most notorious — roadways. State officials are rolling out a multi-phase plan to make Indian Head Highway (MD 210) safer and more accessible for the people who walk, bike, and live along its route.
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is advancing the MD 210 Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity Project, aimed at enhancing infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians along a critical stretch of the highway. The project is currently in early design and review stages.
Early Design Focuses On Key 2.15-Mile Corridor
The project’s first phase targets a 2.15-mile section between the Capital Beltway (I-95/I-495) and the Henson Creek Trail. While construction timelines are not yet finalized, MDOT SHA documents indicate the project is currently 15 percent through its design phase, with environmental review and 30 percent design completion anticipated following NEPA approval.
According to MDOT SHA, planned features in Phase 1 include:
- A 10-foot-wide shared-use path on the east side of MD 210 behind existing noise barriers
- Sidewalks and crosswalks connecting neighborhoods
- Sharrow markings and restriping on Bald Eagle Road and adjoining service lanes
- Bridge improvements over Bald Eagle Road to support pedestrian and cyclist access
- Updated lighting, signage and landscaping to create safer conditions along the corridor
These improvements align with Maryland’s Vision Zero goals to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on roadways.
Crash History Highlights Urgent Need
MDOT safety data and community reports show the MD 210 corridor has a troubling safety record. According to a 2023 report from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration, there were 39 fatal crashes — including four involving pedestrians — along the MD 210 corridor between 2013 and 2023.
In response, state lawmakers have implemented speed cameras, targeted enforcement and safety legislation to address the corridor’s risks as part of a broader Vision Zero strategy.
Funding Outlook And Timeline Flexibility
Although construction for Phase 1 could begin as early as 2026, MDOT SHA has not confirmed a start date. The broader timeline for all phases may extend into the early 2030s, depending on environmental reviews and fiscal planning.
Funding sources include:
- Local and state transportation funds
- Prince George’s County’s video lottery terminal (VLT) revenue
- Potential federal RAISE grant support
Improving Equity And Connectivity
Planners say the MD 210 project will improve mobility equity by offering safer, non-vehicle travel options to residents — especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods. The new infrastructure would close longstanding gaps in the region’s active transportation network, linking homes, schools, parks and employment centers to trails and public spaces like National Harbor.
Residents can follow project updates and view planning documents through the MDOT SHA project portal at roads.maryland.gov.
Additional open houses and design updates are expected in 2026.
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Put it in the middle of 210 bikes don’t belong there so let’s hear them cry someone ran over my baby