Bay Bridge 2.0? That's what it looks like!
Maryland transportation officials estimate building a new Bay Bridge at the site of the existing one that connects between Anne Arundel County and the Eastern Shore will cost between $5.4–$8.9 billion, but will be essential is reducing the bumper to bumper back up you've probably sat through on any given summer weekend.
The Maryland Transportation Authority conducted a study to find the most effective option for reducing the congestion on the current Bay Bridge. The findings were supposed to be released in December 2020, but delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Originally, the study began with 14 potential options, but was quickly narrowed down to three which included, a new bridge from Pasadena to Centreville, a new Bay Bridge at the site of the current one, or a new bridge from the Mayo Peninsula in Anne Arundel County to near St. Michaels in Talbot County. A “no-build” option also was considered but neither of new bridge options, or the "no build" option would reduce or divert enough traffic away from the existing Bay Bridge to make a considerable difference during peak drive times over the summer.
Environmentalists will also be happy to know that because this option is the shortest, and the land infrastructure is already in place, it's the most environmentally advantageous. If you'd like more information on the latest plans, please click here!