Bay Bridge Expected to See Heavy Labor Day Weekend Traffic

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is advising drivers of significant congestion anticipated at toll facilities across the state during the upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend, predicting one of the last major summer travel surges. Motorists heading to popular destinations are encouraged to plan their routes and travel times to minimize delays, especially around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, where substantial traffic backups are expected on U.S. 50 due to peak travel periods.

More than 345,000 vehicles are projected to traverse the Bay Bridge between Friday, August 29, and Monday, September 1. To help alleviate congestion and maintain access for local residents and emergency services, travelers are urged to remain on U.S. 50 on both sides of the bridge. Recommended travel times to avoid the heaviest traffic at the Bay Bridge include traveling before 11 a.m. or after 9 p.m. on Thursday, August 28; before 10 a.m. or after 9 p.m. on Friday, August 29; before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 30; before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on Sunday, August 31; and before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on Labor Day Monday, September 1. Real-time traffic information for the Bay Bridge is available around the clock by calling 1-877-BAYSPAN or visiting Baybridge.com. Updates on incidents impacting Maryland toll roads can be found by following @TheMDTA on X.

In an effort to manage traffic flow, the MDTA may implement two-way operations on the Bay Bridge, weather and traffic conditions permitting. This measure aims to reduce eastbound delays by allowing traffic to flow in both directions simultaneously. However, vehicles weighing over 5 tons Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) are prohibited from using the contra-flow lanes during these operations for safety reasons. The availability of two-way operations can be influenced by westbound traffic volumes, as officials balance delay mitigation for both directions. These operations are also not permitted during periods of high winds, fog, limited visibility, precipitation, or significant incidents. Motorists should also be aware that lane signals, including red X’s (lane closed), yellow X’s (prepare to vacate), and downward green arrows (lane open), are in effect on U.S. 50 approaching, on, and after the bridge. Enforcement is in place for drivers who fail to obey these signals, and commercial vehicles are required to use the right lane when crossing the bridge. The MDTA notes that heavy traffic and associated delays have been a consistent feature of the summer travel season at the Bay Bridge.

The MDTA also reminds drivers about crucial safety practices. Maryland’s Move Over law requires drivers to move over one lane when safely possible for any vehicle displaying hazard lights or warning signals. If moving over is not feasible, drivers must reduce speed. Allowing extra travel time, adhering to posted speed limits, and avoiding driving distractions are essential for preventing accidents. Drivers are also encouraged to look twice for motorcycles and to ensure all vehicle loads and trailer contents are secured to prevent shifting or falling onto the roadway, which can cause serious crashes, particularly on roads with limited or no shoulders. Before embarking on journeys, motorists should ensure their vehicles are road-ready. In the event of a vehicle breakdown where exiting the roadway is unsafe, occupants should remain buckled and facing forward while awaiting assistance by dialing #77 for non-emergency support. Lane changes are prohibited in areas marked with solid white lines indicating the same direction of travel, especially on bridges and in tunnels where shoulders may be absent. Driving under the influence of alcohol or any drugs, including legal prescription or over-the-counter medications, is strictly prohibited. The MDTA Police will be actively monitoring for impaired driving, seatbelt violations, and other dangerous behaviors. Drivers can report aggressive or hazardous driving on Maryland toll roads to MDTA Police Dispatch at 410-537-7911. Travelers are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement by calling MDTA Police Dispatch or 911 in case of an emergency.

For toll payments, the MDTA encourages the use of E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate for a more efficient and cost-effective experience. E-ZPass offers significant savings, up to 77% compared to higher rates associated with other payment methods, and eliminates the paperwork associated with Video Tolls. Pay-By-Plate allows for automatic toll billing to a registered credit card, removing the need for a transponder. The rates for Pay-By-Plate are equivalent to the former cash toll rates. Enrollment in E-ZPass or sign-up for Pay-By-Plate can be completed at DriveEzMD.com. For those driving rental vehicles, it is advisable to add vehicle information to an E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate account or to confirm toll payment procedures with the rental company beforehand. Drivers can utilize the MDTA’s toll rate calculator at DriveEzMD.com to estimate travel costs for their planned routes. The DriveEzMD Customer Service Centers will be closed on Saturday, August 30, and Monday, September 1. Account maintenance and payments can be handled 24/7 through the DriveEzMD website, its mobile app, or the automated phone system at 1-888-321-6824.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Transportation Authority

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