The Maryland Transit Opportunities Coalition filed a lawsuit Monday against the Federal Highway Administration to obtain documents connected to the proposed toll lanes on 1495 and 1270.
The 12-page suit is a request under the Freedom of Information Act to obtain information about the road project, including the American Legion Bridge and agreements between Maryland and Virginia.
The coalition is an organization of transit riders, workers and advocates that strives to expand public transportation.
“The toll lane scheme was plagued with secrecy from the beginning.” MTOC chair Ben Ross said. “Whatever happens next on the American Legion Bridge, full disclosure of the backroom deals that brought us to this point is essential to protect the public interest.”
The coalition has requested documents concerning what it calls the “mysterious” Capital Beltway accord between Maryland and Virginia that was discussed by former governors Larry Hogan and Ralph Northam in 2019.
MTOC submitted a Freedom of Information request 11 months ago but has yet to hear back. According to the complaint, the highway administration should have replied within 20 days.
“Secret deals are no way to conduct the people’s business,” Ross said. “For the sake of accountability, let’s put all the facts in front of the public before any more decisions are made.”
