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September 8, 2006
Bigger Commitment to Transit Needed to Address Transportation Challenge of BRAC In a recent policy statement the BTA called on state and county planners to place a stronger emphasis on public transit to address the transportation challenges created by the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. Estimates of new jobs coming to military facilities in Harford and Anne Arundel counties range as high as 35,000, and many families will relocate to the Baltimore region as a result. Concerned that the state's BRAC transportation strategy includes only modest investments in transit, the BTA identified a program of investments in MARC commuter rail services as well as enhancements to the local bus programs in Harford and Anne Arundel Counties. These transit improvements will not only improve mobility in growing communities, but make the region's older communities more attractive places to locate for both business and households relocating as part of the BRAC process. Examples of specific transit improvements include more MARC trains to and from Aberdeen; lengthening existing trains to provide more seats; increasing parking at existing stations; and studying additional stations in Harford County and Baltimore City. The policy statement also calls for new bus services around Aberdeen Proving Ground and Ft. Meade, and well as programs to encourage carpooling. To see BTA' s policy statement, click here.
Public Workshop on Transit Oriented Development Strategy for West Baltimore Station to be Held in October The West Baltimore MARC Station, already a busy hub for Washington-bound commuters, is envisioned as a full-fledged transit center when the Red Line is constructed. The station, located between Franklin and Mulberry Streets at the western end of the US 40 freeway, is also a highly visible symbol of the untapped economic potential of dozens of West Baltimore neighborhoods. The station and its roughly 1/2 mile area of influence will be the subject of a week-long public workshop beginning Saturday, October 14. The workhop, conducted jointly by the Maryland Department of Transportation and the Baltimore City Planning Department, will result in a development strategy that can guide future development in the area as well as provide direction to the Red Line planners about the design, function, and location of the new station. The workhop is open to the public, including an orientation and neighborhood walk on October 14. A follow up session to share the final product will be scheduled for later in the fall. For more information, contact Don Halligan at 410-865-1285 or dhalligan@mdot.state.md.us.
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