In a significant move towards enhancing Maryland’s transportation infrastructure, Governor Wes Moore recently unveiled a $25.5 million investment in 40 bicycle, pedestrian, and trail projects across the state. The grants allocated for the Fiscal Year 2024 consist of $20.8 million in federal funding for 22 projects through the Transportation Alternatives Program and the Recreational Trails Program, alongside an additional $4.7 million in state funding for 18 projects through the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program.
Governor Moore highlighted the importance of these investments, stating, “To grow our economy and attract a world-class workforce, we need to build new pathways from home to work to leisure. An investment in making Maryland more livable is an investment in making Maryland more competitive. I’m proud of the strong bonds we’ve built between leaders at the local, state, and federal levels to secure this funding, and we will continue moving in partnership to enhance physical and economic mobility for all Marylanders.”
Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld emphasized the need for comprehensive community service through transportation networks, stating, “In order to comprehensively serve our communities, Maryland’s transportation network must include high-quality, convenient, and equitable bike and pedestrian access. We’re working every day to create a transportation network that serves all users, whether they’re driving, walking, biking, scooting, or using mobility devices. We’re excited to support local projects that help expand that network at the grassroots level.”
Here is an overview of the key grant programs and some notable projects:
Transportation Alternatives Program Grants The Transportation Alternatives Program is a federally funded discretionary grant program designed to strengthen the transportation system through community projects. This program supports initiatives that create bicycle and pedestrian facilities, convert abandoned railway corridors into pedestrian trails, mitigate highway runoff, and other transportation-related enhancements. Some of the notable projects funded this year include:
- $6.4 million for a 1.2-mile extension to the BWI Loop Trail in Anne Arundel County.
- $4 million for the construction of a 1.4-mile shared-use path along the east side of Dobbin Road from MD 175 to Oakland Mills Road in Howard County, including other improvements.
- $1.2 million for the rehabilitation of 11 miles of the C&O Canal Towpath in Allegany County.
- $1.4 million for the construction of the LaPlata Bikeway: Radio Station Road Sidepath in Charles County.
Recreational Trails Program Grants The Recreational Trails Program, another federal initiative, provides funds for various recreational trails, including pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian, off-highway vehicle, and paddle sports trails. States are required to allocate funds to facilitate diverse recreational trail use. Notable projects funded this year include:
- $1.8 million for the construction of the first phase of the Pope’s Creek Rail Trail Public Pedestrian Trail in Charles County.
- $420,000 for the Western Region Multi-year Trail Maintenance Program in Allegany and Garrett counties.
- $40,000 for the construction of a skills progression mountain bike trail for Broadford Park Trail System in the Town of Oakland, in Garrett County.
- $48,351 for improvements to the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail in the College Park area of Prince George’s County.
Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program Grants The Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program, established in 2011, provides state funding for planning, design, and construction of bicycle infrastructure, such as protected bike lanes and shared-use paths. Some of the key projects funded this year include:
- $1.2 million for the construction of the seventh phase of the Three Notch Trail in St. Mary’s County from Hollywood to FDR Boulevard.
- $465,000 for the final design of the Metropolitan Branch Trail upgrades in Takoma Park.
- $400,000 for the final design of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Circulation Trail in Princess Anne, Somerset County.
- $400,000 for the construction of the Carroll Street Cycle track in Salisbury.
- $385,517 for the construction of the LaPlata Bikeway in Charles County.
Additionally, feasibility studies and advanced designs for low-traffic-stress bicycle facilities in various Maryland cities have also received grant awards through the Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program.
This comprehensive investment in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure underscores Maryland’s commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive transportation options. These projects not only promote healthier lifestyles but also contribute to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life for all Maryland residents.
For a complete list of grant awardees and project details, you can visit the official Maryland Department of Transportation’s website.
