​Study Team to Assess Transportation Needs for All Users; Public Encouraged to Provide Input 

(October 11, 2023) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will host a virtual public meeting 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 19, to share information and answer questions about the agency’s study of MD 97 (Littlestown Pike) between MD 140 and MD 496 (Bachmans Valley Road) in Carroll County. The study seeks to identify opportunities to improve safety, access and connectivity for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

The corridor study and analysis of needs began in summer 2023 and is expected to be complete by spring 2024. The study is considered a Planning and Environmental Linkages Study – or PEL – that considers environmental, community and economic goals early in the planning stage. Those goals are carried through project development, design and construction. 

During the virtual public meeting, State Highway Administration team members will present a study overview as well as information about existing conditions, environmental features, corridor needs, a proposed study schedule, preliminary findings and recommendations and next steps. Project team members will be available to answer study-related questions.

“The State Highway Administration is committed to providing our customers with safe and reliable multimodal transportation options,” said State Highway Administrator William Pines. “We encourage the public to take part in the virtual public meeting to learn more about the study and how to stay informed.”

Members of the public may attend by using Microsoft Teams Live or by calling 1-443-409-5228 and using conference ID 342 304 84#. Those calling in will be able to hear the presenters and discussion but will be unable to see the presentation. However, all materials can be viewed on the project’s portal page at: https://bit.ly/MDOTSHA-MD140-MD496-PEL. Please fill out the survey which also may be found on the portal page. 

MD 97 study map

After the presentation, the study team will answer as many questions as possible within the allotted time period. Participants are encouraged to submit questions and comments in advance. Advance questions and comments may be sent via email to MD97PELSTUDY@mdot.maryland.gov. Attendees also will be able to send written questions and comments through the Q&A feature during the meeting. 

Those requesting assistance to participate in the virtual public meeting, such as an interpreter for hearing/speech difficulties or assistance with the English language, are asked to send an email to SHATitleVI@MDOTmaryland.gov. Please indicate the desired language in the subject line. The Maryland Relay Service can assist teletype users at 7-1-1.  ​

For a list of all major State Highway Administration projects, go to Project Portal, or visit the homepage at roa​ds.maryland.​gov. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.mary​land.gov.