Maryland, January 23, 2026
The Maryland Department of Transportation has unveiled a $22.1 billion capital budget for transportation projects from 2026 to 2031. This ambitious plan focuses on enhancing safety, modernizing transit systems, and stimulating economic growth throughout Maryland. Key projects include improvements to major routes and rail systems, alongside significant investments in environmental and community initiatives, aiming to strengthen infrastructure and benefit residents.
Hanover, MD – Maryland Department of Transportation Unveils $22.1 Billion Six-Year Capital Budget
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced a $22.1 billion Final Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) for Fiscal Years 2026 to 2031, marking a significant investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure. This plan aims to enhance safety, modernize transit systems, and stimulate economic growth across Maryland.
Key Projects and Investments
- U.S. Route 15 and Interstate 81 Improvements: Construction efforts will focus on enhancing safety and capacity in Western Maryland.
- Baltimore Light Rail Modernization: Upgrades to the Light Rail system are set to improve service reliability and efficiency.
- Port of Baltimore Rehabilitation: The Dundalk Marine Terminal’s berths 11-13 will undergo significant repairs to support increased cargo operations.
- Route 97 and Route 5 Enhancements: Complete Street projects in Montgomery and St. Mary’s Counties aim to improve safety and accessibility for all road users.
- Interstate 97 Safety Upgrades: Initiatives in Anne Arundel County will address congestion and enhance safety measures.
Environmental and Community Initiatives
MDOT’s budget also allocates $10 million in Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027 for feasibility studies to advance local and state priority projects, including highway, pedestrian, bicycle, and transit initiatives. These studies are designed to support the planning and development of transportation projects that align with community needs and environmental sustainability goals.
Funding Sources and Economic Impact
The CTP leverages approximately $400 million in additional annual state transportation revenues approved by the General Assembly in 2025. This funding strategy enables MDOT to secure additional federal matching funds, amplifying the total investment in Maryland’s transportation network. The increased funding is expected to create jobs, reduce congestion, and improve the overall quality of transportation services throughout the state.
Background Context
MDOT’s CTP is a comprehensive six-year capital budget that outlines planned transportation projects and investments across Maryland. The program is updated regularly to reflect changing priorities, economic conditions, and community needs. Previous iterations of the CTP have focused on system preservation, safety enhancements, and economic development, with the current budget continuing these objectives while introducing new initiatives to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the state’s transportation landscape.
Key Features of the 2026-2031 CTP
| Project | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Route 15 and Interstate 81 Improvements | Enhancing safety and capacity in Western Maryland | Western Maryland |
| Baltimore Light Rail Modernization | Upgrading the Light Rail system for improved service | Baltimore |
| Port of Baltimore Rehabilitation | Rehabilitating berths 11-13 at Dundalk Marine Terminal | Baltimore |
| Route 97 and Route 5 Enhancements | Implementing Complete Street projects in Montgomery and St. Mary’s Counties | Montgomery and St. Mary’s Counties |
| Interstate 97 Safety Upgrades | Addressing congestion and safety in Anne Arundel County | Anne Arundel County |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Final Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP)?
The CTP is MDOT’s six-year capital budget that outlines planned transportation projects and investments across Maryland. The current CTP, covering Fiscal Years 2026 to 2031, totals $22.1 billion and focuses on enhancing safety, modernizing transit systems, and stimulating economic growth.
What are the key projects included in the 2026-2031 CTP?
The CTP includes several major projects, such as improvements to U.S. Route 15 and Interstate 81 in Western Maryland, modernization of Baltimore’s Light Rail system, rehabilitation of the Port of Baltimore’s Dundalk Marine Terminal berths 11-13, Complete Street projects on Maryland Route 97 and Route 5, and safety upgrades on Interstate 97 in Anne Arundel County.
How is the CTP funded?
The CTP is funded through a combination of state and federal revenues. In 2025, the Maryland General Assembly approved approximately $400 million in additional annual state transportation revenues, enabling MDOT to secure additional federal matching funds and amplify the total investment in Maryland’s transportation network.
What is the expected impact of the CTP on Maryland’s economy?
The CTP is expected to create jobs, reduce congestion, and improve the overall quality of transportation services throughout Maryland. By investing in infrastructure and modernizing transit systems, the program aims to stimulate economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
How often is the CTP updated?
The CTP is updated regularly to reflect changing priorities, economic conditions, and community needs. Previous iterations have focused on system preservation, safety enhancements, and economic development, with the current budget continuing these objectives while introducing new initiatives to address emerging challenges and opportunities in Maryland’s transportation landscape.
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