MDTA Wants Public Input On I-95 Express Toll Lane Extension

PERRY HALL - At Thursday’s meeting of the Maryland Transportation Authority, the MDTA board and staff presented an updated proposal regarding the I-95 express toll lanes (ETLs).

According to MDTA, the proposed improvements will increase the quality of life for numerous communities. Proposed ETL extension projects include the construction of several new noise walls, the replacement or rehabilitation of seven bridges that are more than 50 years old, improving water quality, and the construction of two new Park and Ride facilities.

Credit: Maryland Transportation Authority

The ETL aims to provide a relatively congestion-free commute for all users, including those traveling by transit.

Construction is already under way for some parts of the I-95 upgrade. Northbound I-95 at the MD 152 interchange (Exit 74) lis currently split into two lanes to the left and two lanes to the right of a work zone separated by a barrier.

The MDTA is asking for public input on the program. The elements of the tolling proposal for public comment are the per-mile toll rate ranges and minimum and maximum trip tolls, which match those already set for the existing successful I-95 ETL that stretches between I-895 to MD 43 (White Marsh Boulevard) in Northeast Baltimore.

The toll structure for the existing I-95 ET stays the same as part of this process, and the toll proposal for the I-95 Northbound Extension and I-695 ramps is identical to the current tolling plan.

The public comment period is now underway, and members of the public may comment for the official record through Thursday, April 13, 2023.

The county has established two in-person public comment meetings and one virtual meeting.

In-person meetings:

• January 27, 2023. (snow date: March 1) Perry Hall High School Cafeteria, 4601 Ebeneezer Road, Nottingham, Md. 21236

• March 6, 2023. (snow date: March 9) Joppatowne High School Media Center, 555 Joppa Farm Road, Joppatowne, Md. 21085

Virtual Meeting:

• March 2, 2023. Register to participate in the virtual hearing: www.mdta.maryland.gov/195ETLNB-Section200

The extension is expected to be open to traffic by the end of 2024 to MD 152, with the full extension north of MD 24 open to traffic by the end of 2027. The proposed improvements will provide our customers with the option of using the general purpose/non-tolled lanes or using the ETL.

I-95's current design (Credit: Maryland Transportation Authority)

This is what the future I-95 extension will look like. (Credit: Maryland Transportation Authority)