For those planning to travel on Maryland toll roads this Memorial Day weekend, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) offers the following tips for a smoother trip.
Prioritize Safety
Marylanders continue to adjust driving routes after the tragic loss of six lives on March, when a marine vessel struck the I-695 Francis Scott Key Bridge. The southeast section of I-695 remains closed at MD 173 (Exit 1), and the last exit from the Inner Loop is MD 151/North Point Boulevard (Exit 42). For more details, visit the MDTA website.
The I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel and I-895 Harbor Tunnel are essential routes but have restrictions. Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of bottled propane gas, are prohibited. Use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels. More on vehicle restrictions can be found here.
Work zones are active on the I-95 corridor. Slow down and stay alert near these areas. MDTA urges all motorists to focus on the road.
Bay Bridge Travel Tips
Expect heavy traffic at the Bay Bridge, with over 330,000 vehicles crossing between Friday, May 24, and Memorial Day Monday, May 27. To reduce delays, travel during off-peak hours. Best times to cross:
Eastbound:
- Thursday, May 23: before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Friday, May 24: before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Saturday, May 25: before 7 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- Sunday, May 26: before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Memorial Day Monday, May 27: before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 28: before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
Westbound:
- Thursday, May 23: before 11 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
- Friday, May 24: before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
- Saturday, May 25: before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Sunday, May 26: before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Memorial Day Monday, May 27: before 9 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 28: before 6 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Two-way operations on the Bay Bridge will be implemented to ease eastbound delays but may be limited by westbound traffic volume, weather conditions, or incidents. Lane signals must be obeyed at all times.
Remember Safety Tips
Follow these safety tips:
- Move Over Law: Applies to all stopped vehicles with caution signals or warning lights.
- Allow extra travel time.
- Adhere to speed limits.
- Avoid distractions while driving.
- Designate a sober driver or use public transportation.
- Look twice for motorcycles.
- Secure your load in vehicles and trailers.
- Ensure your vehicle is road-ready. Call #77 if you break down.
Payment Options
Maryland tolls are collected via E-ZPass, Pay-By-Plate, and Video Tolling. E-ZPass offers significant savings. Pay-By-Plate bills tolls to your credit card without needing a transponder. Learn more and enroll here.
For real-time traffic updates and information, visit the MDTA website or follow @TheMDTA on Twitter.
