HAGERSTOWN, Md. (DC News Now) — Keeping up with all the growth in Washington County has been a challenge, especially when it comes to highway infrastructure.
Newly-elected Rep. April McClain Delaney (D, Md.-6) is tuned into that challenge and has been meeting with local leaders about much-needed and long-awaited improvements.
In Washington County, officials say the short distance between Interstate 81 exit ramps has caused many accidents, some deadly.
“Western Maryland needs more investment in roads and infrastructure,” said McClain Delaney. “Not just I-81, but Route 15 in Frederick and I-270, as well.”
For Jim Kercheval, executive director of the Greater Hagerstown Committee, the support is good news.
“I-81 is critical for moving freight, but it is a real safety hazard here in Washington County, especially because of the high volume of truck traffic,” said Kercheval.
Truck traffic has increased considerably in recent years with the boom in warehouse construction to keep up with the boom in e-commerce.
“We need the funding for three lanes each way on 81,” Kercheval noted. “We have been working on this for decades.”
Immediate design work for widening I-81 is estimated to cost $1.5 million, and construction is estimated to cost about $25 million.
“Too many people lose their lives on these roads every year,” said McClain Delaney. “They are unsafe and overused, and we need to drive construction investment to prevent the accidents.”
Both McClain Delaney and Kercheval said they are encouraged by commitments from Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland General Assembly to keep requested state funding in the budget.
