Maryland Police Ramp Up Bay Bridge Traffic Enforcement Before Memorial Day Rush
DEBARYLIFE – One of the busiest travel days of the year is Memorial Day, particularly if you’re traveling to the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Police from the Maryland Transportation Authority carried out “high visibility traffic enforcement” on US-50 close to the Bay Bridge on Friday in anticipation of the influx of traffic.
In addition to stopping 189 vehicles and issuing 277 citations, they also charged one motorist with operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. According to a press release from the police, two more drivers were accused of narcotics charges.
Prior to Memorial Day weekend, the intention was to decrease collisions and educate drivers, as stated in a news release.
Officers from Queen Anne’s County, Anne Arundel County, and the Maryland State Police helped the MDTA in the endeavor.
What time of year is ideal for crossing the Bay Bridge over Memorial Day weekend?
This Memorial Day weekend, more people are expected to drive than usual, according to AAA’s forecast. An unprecedented 38.4 million people are predicted to drive.
Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer beach vacations in the D.C. region, which means the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is one of the busiest crossings with traffic frequently backing up for miles.
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To avoid getting caught in Bay Bridge gridlock, WTOP’s Dave Dildine in the gridlock Center advised drivers to depart around two in the morning last year.
In 2023, the MDTA advised Memorial Day travelers to schedule their Bay crossings for before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m. on the weekend.
On Saturday afternoon, that time altered somewhat, with after 4 p.m. being the ideal time to travel. They advised drivers to cross on Sunday either before 11 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
There may be some additional difficulties for drivers crossing the Bay Bridge this week due to scheduled construction.
On the bridge, traffic closures will persist until Tuesday. But between May 23 and May 27, there aren’t any planned lane restrictions, so those taking long weekends off can still enjoy the beach.