SHA to Replace Invasive Plants with Native Species on 161 Acres Adjacent to I-83           
          
(March 9, 2009) – Today, the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) will begin a new environmental preservation project along three miles of I-83 (Jones Falls Expressway) between the Baltimore City/County Line and I-695 (Baltimore Beltway). The goal of the project, which is supported through the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Enhancement Program, is aimed to reduce and eradicate invasive plant species and restore native vegetation along Interstate routes and other State highways, which supports Governor O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative.          
          
Local residents and travelers along I-83 north of Baltimore City may have noticed exotic and invasive vegetation has overtaken and endangered native tree, shrub, and wildflower plant communities important to the health of the Jones Falls watershed. The environmental preservation project covers 161 acres of State-owned land adjacent to I-83. During the next two years, SHA will remove invasive species, such as Porcelainberry, Mile a Minute Vine, Oriental Bittersweet, English Ivy, and other vines, which can be seen climbing and engulfing trees along the roadsides. Exotic invasive trees and shrubs such as Ailanthus, Multiflora Rose, Bush Honeysuckle, Russian and autumn olive as well as the noxious weeds Thistle and Johnsongrass will also be removed.           
          
For safety reasons, crews will also remove about two dozen trees that are in poor condition or have the potential to fall onto the roadway. Many of the trees have been degraded or killed by the invasive vines. After the crews have removed the invasive species and the failing trees, there will be many sparse areas along the roadsides. In the short term, some initial plantings of shade and evergreen trees will help buffer the sparse areas. After the project is complete, SHA has a long-term plan to plant additional native trees and shrubs along the State’s portion of the Jones Falls Expressway. Ultimately, the roadside will fill in with new growth that will improve tree health and facilitate the growth of native plants.           
          
During the next two years, crews will do the majority of the work on the land adjacent to the Jones Falls Expressway; however, there may be times when the right shoulder is closed for slope management work and tree removal. SHA encourages all motorists to stay alert for equipment and crews moving along the shoulders of I-83, to drive responsibly and “Think Orange” while driving through highway work zones.           
          
If residents, business owners or property owners along I-83 have any questions or need additional information about the project, they may contact SHA’s Office of Environmental Design at 410-545-8585.           
          
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