With the Memorial Day weekend marking the beginning of peak travel season, Maryland transportation authorities are urging drivers to plan ahead, especially if their routes include the heavily traveled Bay Bridge. An estimated 340,000 vehicles are expected to cross the span between Friday, May 23, and Monday, May 26, prompting state officials to release recommended travel times and safety advisories aimed at reducing delays and preventing accidents.
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The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) recommends that drivers stay on U.S. Route 50 when approaching the bridge from either direction, to prevent congestion on local roadways needed by residents and emergency services. Suggested travel times for eastbound drivers include early mornings and late evenings, particularly before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, and Friday, May 23. For westbound travelers, the best times include before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. On Memorial Day itself, westbound traffic should avoid peak hours by crossing before 9 a.m. or after 10 p.m.
Two-way operations may be employed to alleviate traffic buildup, although these are subject to weather conditions and traffic volume. They will not be used during inclement weather or if visibility is low. The MDTA emphasizes that any delays are caused by traffic volumes exceeding the bridge’s capacity rather than the timing or management of two-way operations. Drivers are reminded to obey lane signals posted on and near the bridge and to expect simultaneous delays in both directions throughout the long weekend.
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In addition to bridge-specific guidance, the MDTA highlights that work zones, including on the I-695 Beltway and northbound I-95 Express Toll Lanes, may feature narrower lanes or limited shoulders. These areas demand extra caution from drivers. Maryland’s Move Over law requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when passing stopped vehicles displaying caution signals. Other safety tips include adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions, and securing vehicle loads. Drivers are also reminded that impaired driving—regardless of substance—is prohibited, and increased police enforcement will be in place throughout the holiday.
For those using Maryland’s toll facilities, multiple payment options are available. E-ZPass remains the most affordable method, while Pay-By-Plate offers a convenient alternative that charges the toll directly to the driver’s credit card. Video Tolling is available but includes higher fees. Rental car drivers can add their vehicle information to an E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate account to avoid issues. DriveEzMD Customer Service Centers will be closed on Saturday, May 24, and Monday, May 26, but online and automated services remain accessible around the clock.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Maryland Transportation Authority press release.
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