BALTIMORE, MD -- The Maryland Transportation Authority anticipates more than 1.6 million vehicles will travel the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95), the Bay Bridge (US 50/301) and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (I-95) alone during this year’s five-day Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Wednesday and Sunday are expected to be the busiest travel days.
From Wednesday, Nov. 21, to Sunday, Nov. 25, the Authority expects: More than 648,000 vehicles to travel through the Fort McHenry Tunnel (1.5 % increase from 2006). About 617,000 vehicles to travel the Kennedy Highway (both directions, 2% increase from 2006). More than 390,000 vehicles to cross the Bay Bridge (both directions, 3 % increase from 2006).
An additional 720,000 vehicles are expected to travel the Authority’s four other toll facilities, which include the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895), the Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695), the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge (US 40) and the Harry W. Nice Bridge (US 301).
“With millions of citizens traveling this weekend, it’s imperative that motorists plan their trips wisely,” said Authority Executive Secretary Ronald L. Freeland. “We urge drivers to travel off-peak hours, to inspect their vehicles before driving, to ease their travel with E-ZPass® and to get the latest Bay Bridge traffic conditions by calling1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726) for current traffic conditions at the Bay Bridge.”
During peak-traffic periods, motorists should anticipate significant delays. Off-peak-traffic hours include: Wednesday – before 7 a.m. and after 10 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday – before 9 a.m. and after 9 p.m.
To help keep traffic moving safely and smoothly, the Authority will: Suspend construction work from Wednesday, Nov. 21, to Monday, Nov. 26, at its toll facilities (no re-decking work at the Bay Bridge from Nov. 20-26). Provide timely information regarding Bay Bridge traffic via 1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726). Real-time traffic images can be viewed at traffic.md.gov. Have Courtesy Patrols ready to respond quickly to disabled vehicles and accidents. Activate variable-message signs and Highway Advisory Radio with information regarding traffic delays, accidents and detours.
When construction work resumes on Nov. 27, the Authority asks drivers to follow these safety measures to help reduce accidents in and near work zones: Expect the Unexpected – Speeds may be reduced, traffic patterns may change, and workers and equipment may be on, or near, the road. Slow Down – Obey posted speed limits. Loss of control due to speeding is a major contributor to work zone crashes. Be Courteous – Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead since unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones. Signal when changing lanes. Watch for Construction Workers/Equipment. Pay Attention to Work Zone Signs and Obey Flaggers. Don’t use Cell Phones, MP3 Players or PDAs – Devote your full attention to driving. Don’t Wait to Merge – Help maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by taking turns merging. Plan Ahead – Leave early and expect delays. Learn What to do in the Event of a Crash – Visit traffic.md.gov and go to the “Reading Room” to check out the “Move It” Form.
The Maryland Transportation Authority is an independent State agency that finances, owns and operates the State’s seven toll facilities. The Authority’s eight Members, appointed by the Governor with consent of the State Senate, serve as the agency’s policy-setting and governing body. Maryland's Secretary of Transportation serves as Authority Chairman.
Contact:
Teri Moss or
Kelly McCleary
410-537-1017 |
