Craig Mackowiak

The 2020 Maryland Mobility Report details the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration's (MDOT SHA) performance in managing the state's transportation system. It uses a data-driven approach to address congestion, improve safety, and enhance reliability across all travel modes. Key priorities include implementing cost-effective operations and engineering solutions, investing in emerging technologies like Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) and Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV), and making strategic infrastructure investments for all roadway users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and freight. The report also highlights efforts to manage the fiscal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The committee discussed a contract procurement for the upgrade and replacement of metal traffic barriers and attenuators, including concerns regarding limited competition in bidding and potential issues with the recommended vendor's standing with the state. Additionally, an update was provided on bond financing initiatives, specifically discussing the potential combination of bond issuances for capital projects to optimize cost efficiency and financial flexibility.

The committee meeting focused on a review of community engagement and communication strategies regarding the Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild project. Key topics included the use of media days to provide direct access to technical experts, the effectiveness of social media platforms for disseminating real-time project updates, the role of the project website as a central information hub, and ongoing community outreach initiatives such as internships, school programs, and pop-up community events. The committee discussed the importance of transparency and plain-language communication in maintaining public trust.

The board meeting included the approval of two major contracts: the cleaning and painting of structural steel at the Bay Bridge and a comprehensive project planning and consulting services agreement. Updates were provided regarding the fiscal year 2027 budget analysis and the Key Bridge rebuild process, specifically covering the progressive design-build estimation, negotiation, and early work packages.

The meeting provided an overview and analysis of the MD 193 University Boulevard Shared Streets Pilot Project, which temporarily converted outer vehicular lanes into bicycle lanes to improve multimodal connectivity. Key discussion topics included the project schedule, infrastructure modifications such as lane repurposing, vertical delineator installations, signal optimizations, and bus stop access improvements. The presentation also detailed data collection outcomes, covering crash safety trends, spot speed studies, travel time impacts, and pedestrian and bicyclist usage statistics. Furthermore, the meeting addressed adjustments made during the pilot in response to feedback, including the addition of flex posts, pavement markings, and signage to enhance safety and resolve operational concerns.