Ehrlich Announces State Funds for Laurel, Rehabing Bridge Over Patuxent River in PG

LAUREL, MD -- Demonstrating the importance of transportation to Maryland's communities, businesses and quality of life, Lieutenant Governor Michael S. Steele visited Laurel today to announce Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. has committed more than $7 million in funding for three road projects along the US 1 Corridor.  Governor Ehrlich has directed the State Highway Administration (SHA) to move forward with the design and construction of a community safety and enhancement streetscape project along US 1 in downtown Laurel, a bridge rehabilitation project along US 1 over the Patuxent River, and to begin comprehensive planning work to develop transportation improvements along US 1 from Elkridge to Laurel. "The additional revenue generated by our transportation funding package is allowing us to build the safety and congestion relief projects that are needed in every corner of the state," said Governor Ehrlich.  "Motorists and residents along the US 1 corridor will see that more projects like these are now moving forward, thanks to the leadership of Senators Sandra Schrader, John Giannetti and Edward Kasemeyer.  They supported my transportation initiative and Maryland now has the additional dollars we need to reduce congestion, improve safety and power our State's economic engines." "By working together in Annapolis, we have been able to bring citizens throughout Maryland new transportation projects that will give motorists and residents a safer, more mobile Maryland," said Lt. Governor Michael S. Steele.  "The projects we are announcing today will significantly benefit residents in Prince George's and Howard counties and have a positive impact on businesses and the quality of life of the region." The $3.5 million community and safety enhancement project along northbound US 1 (2nd Street) will stretch from Talbot Avenue to the Howard County line in Laurel.  It is expected to promote private investment along the US 1 corridor as well as increase the attractiveness and competitiveness of existing business.  Motorists and residents will benefit due to increased vehicular and pedestrian safety as well as easier access to transit facilities.  This project will also enhance the beauty of the US 1 corridor - including new curb and gutter, sidewalks, drainage improvements, reconstruction of the roadway (where needed) and landscaping, giving a "main street" back to the community.   SHA has started to design the project and construction is set to begin fall 2005.  "For too long, projects like these three along US 1 sat on the shelf going nowhere," said Transportation Secretary Robert L. Flanagan.  "Governor Ehrlich and Lt. Governor Steele recognized the need for new transportation funding if we were ever going to be able to address our safety and congestion relief needs around the State.  Their leadership, and the leadership of legislators like Senators Schrader, Kasemeyer and Giannetti, have made it possible to build a better Maryland." Transportation funding was also announced for the US 1 northbound bridge over the Patuxent River at the Prince George's and Howard County line.  The project consists of the rehabilitation of the 55-year-old bridge.  SHA will put a new deck on the bridge to extend its "useful life."  In agreement with the Historical Trust, SHA will remove, replicate, and replace the historic ornamental railings on the bridge.  Construction on this $2.3 million project will begin spring 2005.  "Making Prince George's and Howard Counties a safer place to travel is our priority.  We are pleased to have the Ehrlich Administration as a willing partner in this effort," said Senator Sandra Schrader. Lt. Governor Steele also outlined plans for a study of transportation improvements along the US 1 corridor.  This $1.25 million study is the result of a partnership between the State and Howard County to enhance the image and function of the nine-mile US 1 corridor from Elkridge in Howard County to Laurel in Prince George's County.  The planning study is anticipated to begin in fiscal year 2005.  "We certainly appreciate the Governor's commitment to transportation along US 1 between Elkridge and Laurel," said Senator Edward Kasemeyer.  "The comprehensive study to improve US 1 is a positive step in the right direction." "Route 1 is a vital lifeline that courses through the heart of our State and it's been neglected," said Senator John Giannetti.  "These safety improvements in Laurel are much needed and we appreciate Governor Ehrlich's answer to our calls for help. These improvements will enhance the quality of life in Prince George's County." These US 1 Corridor improvements are made possible by the passage of Ehrlich Administration landmark transportation funding initiative in the 2004 legislative session.  The package will generate an additional $237 million annually for transportation.  Over the next six years, the Ehrlich Administration will be able to invest $11.5 billion to upgrade Maryland's transportation network.