League of Women Voters of Maryland

TRANSPORTATION

The big decisions in transportation are made in the budget, not in transportation legislation. Though the Inter-county Connector goes forward, the major changes in the Consolidated Transportation Plan 2008-2013 (CTP) reflect a greater priority on transit. Light rail vehicle overhaul, Automated Vehicle Location Systems for buses, closed circuit TV improvements, Southern Maryland Commuter Bus Initiative, dedicated WMATA funding and assessment of transit needs for Maryland Base Realignment Commission have all been added to the CTP since last year. This Plan was prepared before the special session so it does not reflect increases in funding to the Transportation Trust Fund.

One bill requires greater detail of mass transit in the CTP, requiring that projections, projects and programs, by mode, be included in future plans. HR 78 (Holmes) – State Report on Transportation-Mass Transit-Required Element (hrg. ENV 1/30)