Trone delivers on infrastructure priorities to improve highway systems
Credit: Garrett County Republican
Last week, Congressman David Trone (D-MD) announced that the Maryland Department of Transportation’s draft capital budget plan includes vital funding to address his top infrastructure priorities across Maryland’s Sixth District.
Also included in the plan is $1.3 billion in new federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which passed into law last November.
Congressman Trone voted for the IIJA, which is a once-in-a-generation investment in the nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness. Maryland will count on roughly $4.6 billion in federal formula funding from the law over five years to improve its highways and bridges, in addition to over $3 billion in IIJA funding to improve broadband access, water systems, and public transportation.
“I proudly voted for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is already living up to its promise to deliver crucial, long-overdue investments in Maryland’s infrastructure to create jobs, connect our communities, and bolster local economies,” said Congressman Trone. “Without a doubt, this plan is a game-changer for Marylanders, especially for those living in Frederick, Washington, Allegany, and Garrett counties. I’m glad we could deliver on these priorities that we’ve fought so hard for in Maryland, and I’ll keep fighting to build a brighter future. You can count on it.”
The plan includes the following funding for Trone’s top transportation priorities in Congress, bringing significant investments to spur economic growth in the region:
U.S. 15 — $150,890,000: New IIJA funding will enable the state to begin construction on this long-standing Frederick County priority. The 4-mile stretch of U.S. 15 has long been a cause of congestion and traffic safety issues. The funding will expand this section to alleviate rush hour traffic and improve interchanges.
U.S. 219 North — $69,193,000: Congressman Trone’s “Finish the ADHS Act” was included in the IIJA and ensured Maryland would have all of the funding necessary to fully complete Maryland’s portion of U.S. 219 North to connect I-68 with the Pennsylvania Turnpike. First established over 50 years ago under the Johnson administration, the network was yet to be completed before this federal funding.
I-68 Viaduct — $38,800,000: This new funding will allow for resurfacing of the portion of I-68 that goes through the heart of Cumberland. These roadway investments are due to nearly $40 million in new IIJA funding.
U.S. 220 — $9,732,000: U.S. 220 has been without dedicated funding to improve the triangle in Cresaptown and relieve congestion, which has been a long-standing priority in Allegany County. Improving traffic congestion will shorten travel times for residents and benefit local businesses.