Holiday Travel Expected to Cause Delays on Bay Bridge, Maryland Transportation Authority Offers Guidance

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is anticipating significant traffic volume across its toll facilities, particularly the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, as the Labor Day holiday period approaches. To assist travelers, the MDTA has released recommended times to cross the Bay Bridge to help mitigate congestion and provided information on toll payment options and safety reminders.

With an estimated 345,000 vehicles expected to traverse the Bay Bridge between Friday, September 4, and Labor Day Monday, September 7, motorists are advised to plan their journeys carefully. The MDTA emphasizes the importance of using US 50 for bridge crossings to ensure local roadways remain accessible for emergency services and residents. The agency has also outlined specific times to travel east and westbound to avoid the heaviest traffic. For eastbound travel, favorable times include Thursday, September 3, before 11 a.m. and after 9 p.m.; Friday, September 4, before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.; Saturday, September 5, before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m.; Sunday, September 6, before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.; and all day on Labor Day, Monday, September 7. For westbound crossings, motorists are advised to travel all day Thursday, September 3, and Friday, September 4; Saturday, September 5, before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m.; Sunday, September 6, before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.; and Monday, September 7, before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m. The MDTA may implement two-way traffic operations on the Bay Bridge to ease eastbound congestion, though this capability is dependent on westbound traffic volumes and will not be available during adverse weather conditions or certain incidents. Drivers should be aware that travel delays are likely in both directions throughout the holiday weekend due to traffic demand. Overhead lane signals will be in effect, and ignoring these signals is a traffic violation actively enforced by police. Commercial vehicles are required to use the right lane when crossing the bridge. For continuous Bay Bridge traffic updates, individuals can visit Baybridge.com or call 1-877-BAYSPAN.

The MDTA offers several convenient options for toll payment across Maryland’s toll facilities. The most cost-effective method is E-ZPass, which can provide savings of up to 77% compared to other options and reduces administrative burdens. Alternatively, the Pay-By-Plate system allows drivers to have tolls automatically billed to a registered credit card, eliminating the need for a transponder or pre-paid deposit. Pay-By-Plate rates are comparable to previous cash rates. Those interested in signing up for E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate can find more information and enrollment details at http://www.driveezmd.com. For individuals using rental vehicles, it is possible to temporarily add vehicle information to an E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate account, or to confirm toll arrangements with the rental company prior to travel. The MDTA’s toll rate calculator, available on driveezmd.com, can help estimate travel costs. Customer service centers for DriveEzMD will be closed on Saturday, September 5, and Monday, September 7. Account maintenance and payments can be managed 24/7 through the DriveEzMD website, the DriveEzMD app, or by calling the automated system at 1-888-321-6824.

In addition to travel planning and toll payment information, the MDTA is reminding all drivers to prioritize safety on the roadways. Drivers are encouraged to allow ample travel time and to avoid distractions, such as setting GPS devices before departing. The agency reiterates the importance of the “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to yield to stopped vehicles with active warning lights. If moving over is not possible, drivers must slow down. The MDTA Police and Emergency Response Units will increase patrols during the holiday period to promptly address incidents and disabled vehicles. In the event of a vehicle breakdown, drivers should exit the roadway if possible; otherwise, they should remain in their vehicle and call #77 for assistance. For immediate emergencies, drivers should dial 911. Impaired driving, whether from alcohol, prescription drugs, or other substances, is strictly prohibited and poses a significant risk to all road users. Law enforcement will be vigilant in targeting impaired driving, seat belt violations, and other criminal activities. To report aggressive or dangerous driving on Maryland toll roads, drivers can contact MDTA Police Dispatch at 410-537-7911. Travelers are also urged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. Real-time updates on major incidents on Maryland toll roads can be found by following the MDTA on X at https://x.com/TheMDTA.

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

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