GOVERNOR O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES DESIGN FUNDING FOR US 301/MD 304 SAFETY PROJECT IN QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY

Additional $7.8 million committed to advance interchange design for heavily-traveled intersection in Centreville

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 13, 2012) – Governor Martin O’Malley today announced a $7.8 million investment to complete the design of the US 301/MD 304 interchange in Centreville, Queen Anne’s County. Today, a basic intersection is in place at what is one of the most heavily traveled stretches along the US 301 Corridor. With the construction of a grade-separated interchange, motorists will have a safer way to move across US 301 and along MD 304. Working in partnership with residents, local and state officials, the additional funds provide full funding for the design phase of the project.

“With this investment in the US 301/MD 304 interchange, we can keep our families and children safe as they travel to work, school and go about their daily lives,” said Governor O’Malley. “Today, we move another step closer to separating local traffic from the truck and through traffic running on US 301 so that we can improve safety and better serve the needs of area residents. Together, we can work to improve this busy intersection.”

As a primary upper shore route, US 301 carries 17,500 vehicles in this area each day, with a significant portion being large tractor trailers. This section of US 301 is projected to carry 32,000 motorists per day by 2030. Construction improvements will include an interchange with a loop ramp in the southwest corner of the intersection, and other safety enhancements such as bicycle-compatible shoulders in both directions. The total projected cost, still to be funded, of acquiring the necessary right-of-way and constructing the project is in excess of $55 million. The US 301/MD 304 interchange has been identified as the top transportation priority for Queen Anne’s County by elected officials.