State Highway Administration’s $56.9 Million Project Enhances Safety, Improves Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Along US 1 Corridor 

COLLEGE PARK, MD (November 9, 2024) – Maryland Department of Transportation officials joined Prince ​George’s County elected officials, City of College Park officials and other stakeholders on Saturday for a community celebration to mark completion of a $56.9 million project along US 1 (Baltimore Avenue) in College Park. 

The 1.5-mile project, completed by the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration, enhances safety and improves traffic flow for all road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists, while supporting current and future development along the busy US 1 corridor.

“The reconstruction of US 1 in College Park provides improved transportation options and reaffirms our commitment to connect Marylanders to life’s opportunities,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Once the Purple Line is complete, the City of College Park will be better served by improved roads and light rail transit that will connect to the existing Metro system.”

Construction on the project began in 2020 and was completed in fall 2024. Improvements include: 

• ​widening lanes to provide two lanes in each direction and auxiliary lanes that transition into turn lanes;
• adding a raised median;
• adding intersection and pedestrian lighting and additional landscaping;
• constructing a five-foot wide bicycle lane on each side of US 1 designated by green paint;
• improving sidewalks and crosswalk ramps to comply with Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards;
• resurfacing the roadway and adding signage and pavement markings; and
• upgrading drainage and stormwater management facilities and relocating utilities.

The project also improves bicycle and pedestrian access to the nearby Paint Branch Trail and will provide direct access to the future Purple Line light rail stations on and near the University of Maryland campus.

The US 1 project incorporated several elements from the State Highway Administration’s Context Driven ​planning and design guide, including continental crosswalks and dedicated bicycle lanes. The green pavement for the bike lanes increases the visibility of lanes and reinforces that drivers must yield to bicyclists when entering an area of potential conflict. These upgrades allow for all modes of travel to move safely along the US 1 corridor, which is a major north-south route in the state carrying more than 35,000 vehicles daily.

“The State Highway Administration is proud of our partnership with the City of College Park, the University of Maryland, elected officials and local stakeholders in delivering this project for the community," said State Highway Administrator Will Pines. “These improvements put into action our plans to improve highway safety for all users, much like our other ongoing safety projects throughout Prince George's County on MD 410, MD 500, MD 650 and more."

The celebration included a ribbon cutting ceremony on the University of Maryland campus, followed by a procession of people on foot and bicycle practicing safe walking and biking utilizing the new pedestrian and bicycle improvements along US 1. The procession was led by the university’s mascot, Testudo, along with the marching band. Local car enthusiasts displayed their classic cars, and the State Highway Administration provided bike lights and offered safety resources to attendees.

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

What others are saying about the US 1 (Baltimore Avenue) Improvement Project Completion

“The Route One Reimagined project is a significant milestone for College Park. This 1.5-mile transformation enhances safety and mobility for everyone, from pedestrians to drivers. It’s a crucial step forward in revitalizing this key corridor, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this achievement with our partners.”

- Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk (District 21), Chair of Health and Government Operations Committee

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​“It’s immensely gratifying to see MDOT/SHA open this first section of a complete streets project that restores balance and access to Route 1 for the citizens of College Park, the University of Maryland and the region. Let this be an inspiration for Route 1 from Maine to Florida! Providing safety and convenience for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and, yes, motorists is smart growth and smarter public policy.” 

- John D. Porcari, Maryland Secretary of Transportation (1999-2003, 2006-2009)

“It’s called US Route 1 for a reason. Founded in 1911, it connected Maine to Florida. Other US routes, from 2 to 66, were imitators. In 2024, we’re leading the nation, making Route 1 great again — for safe driving, bicycling and walking. And we’ve just gotten started. Right here in College Park!”

- Senator Jim Rosapepe, Vice Chair of the Senate Budget and Tax Committee

“As a member of the House Environment and Transportation Committee, pedestrian, bicyclist and road safety have been major priorities for me in Annapolis. I’m thrilled that the US Route 1 improvements will help move walkers, cyclists and drivers more safely and efficiently up and down one of District 21’s most heavily traveled corridors.”

- Delegate Mary Lehman (District 21)

“The Route 1 project will expand transportation options for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and students. This initiative is a key part of the state and countywide investment to make Maryland roadways more equitable, accessible and safe. Along with MDOT and the State Highway Administration, we thank all partners for making this project become a reality.”

- Delegate Ben Barnes (District 21), Chair of the House Appropriations Committee

“The College Park community has advocated for a safer and more aesthetically pleasing Route 1 for many years.  It’s such a joy to see Phase 1 of this project finally come to fruition. The City has been in the midst of a transformation over the last decade, and our Main Street – Route 1 - has been a key part. We thank the State, our representatives, and all of our partners for making our Main Street dream a reality.”

- College Park Mayor Fazlul Kabir

“Baltimore Avenue is now College Park’s ‘Main Street,’ a safer boulevard for all users – pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike. Its transformation contributes to a more vibrant and walkable community.”

- Council Member Eric Olson (District 3)

“I am grateful to our local leaders and to the Maryland Department of Transportation for working together on these much-needed improvements to Baltimore Avenue. Whether traveling by car or bus, scooters or bicycles or on foot, our students and entire community now have a safer journey to and from campus.”

- University of Maryland College Park President Darryll J. Pines