WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes and Kweisi Mfume (all D-Md.) today announced an award of $22 million in federal funding to the Maryland Department of Transportation for the East-West Priority Corridor Project. Funding comes through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure for Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. In July, members of the delegation sent letters to Secretary Pete Buttigieg requesting federal resources for the East-West Priority Corridor Project to improve safety and repair infrastructure for more reliable transit in Baltimore City and Baltimore County.
The East-West Priority Corridor Project aims to facilitate faster and more reliable transit. This will be achieved through dedicated bus lanes, bus stop enhancements – including shelters and safety improvements – updated communication for bus arrivals, pedestrian and bicycle safety through curb extensions and lighting, and ADA accessibility investments. The project will improve mobility and safety along a vital corridor for the Baltimore region that connects both residential communities and regional job centers.
“Not only will the East-West Priority Corridor Project reduce road congestion, it will improve safety, convenience, and economic opportunity for Baltimoreans,” said the lawmakers. “Reliable public transportation is essential for basic mobility and livability, especially in larger cities like Baltimore. That’s why we were proud to support funding for this project and why we fought increase funding for grants like this in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Our delegation will keep working to deliver federal resources to expand and modernize public transportation.”
“Thanks to the leadership of our federal partners for funding the RAISE grant, the East-West Priority Corridor project can further efforts to improve safety, accessibility, and facilitate faster and more reliable transit for Baltimoreans,” said Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott. “This comprehensive effort aligns with my administration’s commitment to strengthening transportation infrastructure, creating jobs, and building a more equitable Baltimore.”
“MDOT MTA is committed to an equitable distribution of resources throughout our system,” said MDOT MTA Administrator Holly Arnold. “The East-West Priority Corridor Project manifests that commitment in a way that’s tangible, highly visible and offers residents a beneficial impact in the near future.”
“Today’s announcement highlights how great partnerships and collaboration can advance our shared vision,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Greg Slater. “By delivering more than 10 lane miles of dedicated bus lanes, real-time signage, upgraded bus shelters and enhanced pedestrian and bicycle safety, this project that will improve access to jobs, health care and education for city residents.”
Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the lawmakers worked to authorize RAISE grants at $12.5 billion over 5 years.
More information about the project and construction can be found here.
