The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) has approved the Maryland Transportation Authority’s (MDTA) recommendation to move forward with a study that will lead to a new crossing of the Chesapeake Bay.
The new crossing, which is years away, would be located between Anne Arundel and Queen Anne’s counties, near the existing Bay Bridge, per MDTA.
According to the study, the new span will cost between $5.4 billion to $8.9 billion, but the state has not yet discussed how the project would be funded.
Additional information can be seen below, per MDTA:
Following analysis of transportation and environmental conditions presented in the Tier 1 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), comments received from the public, and concurrence from resource and regulatory agencies, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has approved the Bay Crossing Study: Tier 1 NEPA combined Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision (FEIS/ROD). The combined FEIS/ROD was approved on April 14, 2022 and formally identifies Corridor 7 – the corridor containing the existing Bay Bridge – as the Selected Corridor Alternative.
The Tier 1 combined FEIS/ROD has been prepared pursuant to Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations at 40 CFR 1500 – 1508. The combined FEIS/ROD focuses on updates to the February 2021 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) that was available for review and comment from February 23 through May 17, 2021. The FEIS provides summaries of the more than 850 agency and public comments received and responds to substantive comments. The FEIS/ROD also provides additional information concerning the analysis of corridor alternatives and anticipated environmental effects based on public and agency input. In consideration of this information and the project record, FHWA and MDTA identified Corridor 7 as the Selected Corridor Alternative that best meets the Tier 1 NEPA Study Purpose and Need.
The approval of the FEIS/ROD marks completion of the Tier 1 NEPA Study. A potential future Tier 2 NEPA Study could be initiated should funding become available. A Tier 2 NEPA Study would evaluate a no-build alternative and identify specific alignment alternatives within the two-mile-wide Selected Corridor Alternative identified during the Tier 1 NEPA Study (Corridor 7). Completion of the Tier 1 NEPA Study does not presume the initiation of a Tier 2 NEPA Study since no funding has been identified.
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From the Offices of Councilmembers Will Jawando, Gabe Albornoz and Kristin Mink:
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
