No Eastern Baltimore County Site Included in Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study

As part of Tier 1 of the ongoing Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study, the federal environmental process is taking to the public four preliminary alternatives, including three preliminary corridors and a no-build alternative.

There were original 14 sites proposed along the Chesapeake Bay region for a third span of a Bay Bridge from northern Harford County to Southern Maryland. That included three proposals in eastern Baltimore County. One would have extended Route 43 in White Marsh to Chestertown, the next local proposal was from Route 702 to north of Rock Hall and the last local proposal was from Millers Island in Edgemere to Rock Hall. None of those sites were selected.

Data indicates these three preliminary corridor alternatives are the only corridors to sufficiently meet the purpose and need in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). As part of this process, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) will present the no-build alternative, the preliminary corridor alternatives, and the original full range of alternatives from the study for public review and comment at six open houses in September and October.

“While the No-Build alternative and three preliminary corridor alternatives are being included in the federal environmental process for further study, traffic models indicate that one of the three, building a third crossing within the same corridor as the existing Bay Bridge (Corridor 7), would have the most positive impact on reducing traffic,” said MDTA Executive Director Jim Ports.

The MDTA and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are following a tiered NEPA process that provides a systematic approach for advancing potential transportation improvements. The purpose of the Bay Crossing Study is to consider potential alternatives to provide expanded traffic capacity and additional access across the Chesapeake Bay to improve mobility, travel reliability and safety at the existing Bay Bridge, while considering financial viability and environmental responsibility. The study also looks at modal and operational transportation methods including ferry service, bus rapid transit, rail transit and transportation systems management/travel demand management.

The Bay Crossing Study Tier 1 is retaining the No-Build alternative and these Preliminary Corridor Alternatives Retained for Analysis (CARA):

  • Corridor 6: MD 100 to US 301 between Pasadena (Anne Arundel County), Rock Hall (Kent County) and Centreville (Queen Anne’s County);
  • Corridor 7: existing Bay Bridge corridor, US 50/301 to US 50 between Crofton (Anne Arundel County) and Queenstown (Queen Anne’s County); and
  • Corridor 8: US 50/301 between Crofton (Anne Arundel County) and Easton (Talbot County).

Data indicates that each of the three corridor alternatives could have a positive impact on traffic. Corridor 7, the corridor where the existing Bay Bridge is today, provides the most congestion relief. This corridor best relieves congestion at the existing Bay Bridge on both non-summer weekdays and summer weekends compared to all other corridors. Corridor 7 would best reduce backups at the existing Bay Bridge, provide the greatest reduction in the duration of unacceptable congestion levels, and is more compatible with existing land-use patterns, according to the study data.

The regional analyses undertaken during the Tier 1 study involves the evaluation of approximately 2-mile wide corridors using a broad-scale level of detail for engineering and environmental information. The Tier 1 study will result in selection of a corridor alternative that best meets the study purpose and need.  Following the Tier 1 study, a Tier 2 study would identify specific alignment alternatives within the corridor alternative that is identified in Tier 1. 

At the open houses, the MDTA will provide information and receive feedback on the range of alternatives and the Preliminary CARA. Attendees also will learn about the purpose and need aspect of the study, traffic, engineering and environmental considerations, comments received to date, next steps and how to stay informed. For more information on the four preliminary alternatives, visitbaycrossingstudy.com to review the public open house display boards. Here are the planned open houses:

Tuesday, Sept. 24 (6-8 p.m.)Kent County High School25301 Lambs Meadow Rd.Worton, MD 21678Wednesday, Sept. 25 (6-8 p.m.)Queen Anne’s County High School125 Ruthsburg Rd.Centreville, MD 21617 
Thursday, Sept. 26 (6-8 p.m.)Calvert High School600 Dares Beach Rd.Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Tuesday, Oct. 1 (6-8 p.m.)Middle River Middle School800 Middle River Rd.Middle River, MD 21220
Wednesday, Oct. 2 (6-8 p.m.)Anne Arundel Community College101 College Pkwy.Arnold, MD 21012 Thursday, Oct. 3 (6-8 p.m.)Talbot County Community Center10028 Ocean GatewayEaston, MD 21601 

Funded by toll dollars, the Bay Crossing Study Tier 1 began in 2016 and is expected to be complete in 2021. The next steps are to publish a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and hold public hearings in fall 2020. The final steps are to identify the preferred corridor alternative and publish the Final Environmental Impact Statement/Record of Decision in collaboration with FHWA in summer 2021.

National Night Out Events Photos

There were National Night Out Events (NNO) all over eastern Baltimore County and all over the county, state and country on Tuesday as NNO is a night where communities come together to stand up to crime. Some of the events were held in the rain as a storm pasted though the region Tuesday night. Here are some photos from Councilman David Marks (R-5) and Councilwoman Cathy Bevins (D-6) social media pages.

” Tonight was National Night Out, and I was fortunate to attend five of the six events in the Fifth District. Many thanks to the volunteers in Dunfield, Seven Courts, Perring Park, Campus Hills and Magnolia Acres who welcomed me and work with our police to keep their neighborhoods safe,” Mark said in his visits around the area.

Bevins also attended many NNOs in her district, including the inaugural event for Overlea Community Association.

” Another successful National Night Out across the 6th district! I was able to attend four awesome communities that work tirelessly with law enforcement and COP volunteers,” Bevins said.

Henn Shares Proposed FY2021 State Capital Budget Request

Fifth district BCPS Board Member Julie Henn shared the proposed FY2021 state capital budget request includes the following projects in her district:

NE Area Elementary @ Ridge Road ($17,320,000)
NE Area Middle ($43,213,000)
Perry Hall High Chiller Replacement ($1,680,000)
Towson High Replacement (Planning Approval)

“The recommendation will be presented to the Board on Tuesday, August 6 and will be discussed at the work session on Tuesday, August 20, 2019, and is scheduled for Board action on Tuesday, September 10, 2019,” Henn said in a social media post.

“State-funded project requests require verification of county matching funds before final state approval (May/June 2020).”

I-95 ETL Extension Meeting to be Held in Perry Hall

The public is invited to receive updates on the I-95 Express Toll Lanes (ETL) Northbound Extension.  The first update opportunity is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 5 at Perry Hall High School from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.  No formal presentation will be given.

This project will enhance the MDTA’s efforts to provide a safe and reliable drive for its customers.  Improvements include new noise walls and the replacement or rehabilitation of bridges that are more than 50 years old.  The I-95 ETL Northbound Extension will be completed in segments and is expected to open to traffic through MD152 by the end of 2023 and through MD24 by the end of 2026.

More information about the I-95 ETL Northbound Extension can be found at https://mdta.maryland.gov/I95ETLNB/home.html.  Meeting materials will also be posted to that website. 

Kingsville Elementary Outdoor Center is vandalized

Members of the Kingsville Elementary School PTA reported that a desk at their outdoor learning center was vandalized.

“I cannot express the anger I am feeling right now. Parents of Kingsville got together and renovated our outdoor learning center. Amazing expensive wood was used to create this desk FOR OUR CHILDREN,” said a statement on the Kingsville PTA Facebook page on Saturday evening around 8 p.m.

“And someone has defaced it. The time and money that these parents spent so our children and teachers could have an amazing space HAS BEEN ruined!! What is going in this world?”

According to 5th District School Board Member Julie Henn, the project was just completed in June. Henn said she is upset because The Kingsville PTA worked hard on the outdoor project.

“I was angered to learn that a gorgeous, handcrafted Brazilian hardwood desk in the space was recently vandalized and stopped by [Saturday] to talk with parents and police and to offer assistance,” Henn explained.

“The BCPS Office of School Safety and BCPD are investigating this incident. If you have any information, please call 443-809-3172.”

Bevins Announces Resurfacing Project in Middle River

Councilwoman Cathy Bevins announced that Ebenezer Road in Middle River is getting resurfaced and the project has begun.

“It began over 2 years ago and had to stop below Bird River Road due to utilities work that was scheduled. This will be over four miles of resurfacing! The segment that’s underway now will go all the way to Grace Quarters Road,” Bevins said on social media.

Bevins also added that the Ebenezer Road passing lane is being eliminated between Earls and Bird River Beach roads.

“[There are] so many accidents, and high speeding with people trying to pass on a 40 mph roadway,” Bevins explained.

“I want to thank Frank Strandafer who worked with me along with traffic engineering to make this happen, I also appreciate the support of County Executive Johnny O for making this a reality! Safe travels everyone and appreciate your patience while the work takes place.”

Heavy Storms and Flooding Hit Northeastern Baltimore County

If you were in the Parkville, Carney, White Marsh, Perry Hall and Kingsville areas on Thursday, July 11. you know how extensive the storm damage was to the area. Here is some photos and reports from emergency units in the area.

The White Marsh Fire Company reported
a vehicle reported in flood water on Pulaski Hwy near Jones Road. They responded to a pickup truck on its side in the water. They reported the driver got out of the truck when they arrived. -Photo courtesy of Bryan Meinschein-




The White Marsh Fire Company also responded to multiple cars stranded in flooded water by Ikea on Honeygo Blvd. -Photo courtesy of Madison Gugliotta –

Councilman David Marks shared a photo from the Parkville Police precinct that showed flooding at the intersection Cub Hill/Cromwell Bridge roads




After the storm, there were many traffic lights out throughout the northeast. Here is a police office directing traffic at the intersection of Harford and Joppa roads -Photo courtesy of Baltimore County Police Department-

Marks Reports Firework Damage to Perry Hall High Turf Field

Councilman David Marks reported that there was damaged to the new turf field at Perry Hall High School and said it was a result of fireworks.

“Last night, someone (or some group) thought it would be amusing to set off firecrackers at the new Perry Hall High School turf field,” Marks said. “The scorched area will be replaced, but if you know who trespassed onto school grounds to set off these fireworks, please call the White Marsh precinct at 410-887-5000.”

Marks explained the turf field at Perry Hall is currently open to the public but last night’s event could result in a change of accessible.

He added that his office and Baltimore County Police are overwhelmed with the complaints of fireworks during this time of year.

“Fourth of July fireworks displays are very tough for the police to enforce – there are just so many. I constantly get complaints about loud noise and the impact on pets. Here, public property was destroyed,” Marks said.

Local Officials Plan Strategy for Middle School Funding

Parents of Perry Hall Middle School have complained about the overcrowding of their middle school and were excited when Baltimore County announced plans to build a new middle school in Nottingham Park on King Avenue and to expand Pine Grove Middle School in Carney.

Those plans got delayed when Baltimore County announced a budget shortfall. There was a bill introduced in the General Assembly that would have given Baltimore County an additional $400 million in school construction but that bill never received a vote in the Maryland Senate.

Councilman David Marks and Baltimore County Board of Education Member Julie Henn held a town hall meeting on Tuesday to discuss the next steps in securing the funding for the new northeast area middle school.

They were joined by Delegates Joe Boteler, Harry Bhandari, and Kathy Szeliga. Marks was impressed with the dozens of residents that came out on a hot and stormy night.

“Despite anger at the delays to the proposed Nottingham Middle School – frustration that I share as a parent – people are engaged and ready to work,” Marks said.

Henn advised Perry Hall residents to attend BCPS school board meetings and to email school board members so they can prioritize the building of the new northeast middle school.

“The Board will receive the Superintendent’s proposed FY2021 State Capital Request in August. The Northeast Area Middle School must remain high on the Board’s list of priorities,” Henn said. “Show up! Be heard! Follow this page for updates and join our email list for more opportunities to help us advocate for our new northeast middle school. “

Marks added that this year’s school construction bill will be submitted early and should be SB 1. Szeliga said that the bill should receive an early bill hearing around mid to late January and advised parents to go down to Annapolis to testify on the bill.

After the new middle school is built, Henn explained that it will remove 300 students away from Perry Hall Middle. One parent said that is minimal and would still like to see a boundary study conducted and feels it is the only way to alleviate overcrowding.

Marks said some of the problems of today are from the past decisions to expand Perry Hall middle and high schools instead of rezoning but said the community needs to focus on the future.

“We came up with a plan to testify throughout the budget process. The handout is (below). Email me at dmarks@baltimorecountymd.gov to be added to the distribution list.

Perry Hall Resident Jim Ports Named MDTA Executive Director

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board today named James F. Ports, Jr. as Executive Director of the 1,700-employee agency that oversees the state’s eight toll facilities and the E-ZPass Maryland system. Mr. Ports, who is a resident of Perry Hall and former state delegate in District 8, has served as Deputy Secretary of Operations for the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) since 2015. He also previously served as MDOT Deputy Secretary from 2004 to 2007 during the administration of Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. The new position is effective immediately.

“The MDOT family has benefitted tremendously from Jim’s breadth of experience and knowledge in transportation and operations, and I’m confident he will continue to deliver positive results and outstanding customer service at the MDTA,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary and MDTA Chairman Pete K. Rahn.

Prior to being named Deputy Secretary of Operations for MDOT, Mr. Ports served as Administrator and Chief Executive Officer for the Harford County Transit system and as Deputy Administrator for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. He served in the Maryland House of Delegates from 1991 through 2002.

“I’m honored to have the trust of the Hogan Administration and the Chairman and Board members of the MDTA,” said Executive Director Ports. “Working side by side with the outstanding MDTA team, we’ll build on efforts to serve our citizens by constructing, operating and improving Maryland’s toll facilities. I thank Chief Operating Officer John O’Neill for his leadership as the MDTA’s Acting Executive Director since April.”

The new executive director will manage MDTA daily operations, including the nationally accredited MDTA Police, a $324.4 million annual operating budget and a $3.1 billion six-year capital program.  He also will work with the MDTA Board to establish policy and strategic direction for the agency.   

Executive Director Ports served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Sergeant (E5) and was Crew Chief on a CH-46 helicopter. He earned several military medals including the Marine Expeditionary Medal.  He is a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and of the Marine Corps League.