Maryland

[MASTERNC]

Hasn't been well publicized but the Governor did sign legislation that increases work zone speed camera fines.  Initially the fines will double to $80 but will change a year later. At that point, they will start at $60 and go up based on speed, up to $500.  They can still fine when there is no work, but the fines are doubled when workers are present (looks like the legislation requires flashing signage similar to PA to signal activity). 

https://www.marylandmatters.org/2024/04/16/increased-fines-public-education-campaign-focus-of-highway-safety-efforts/

[epzik8]

Hasn't been well publicized but the Governor did sign legislation that increases work zone speed camera fines.  Initially the fines will double to $80 but will change a year later. At that point, they will start at $60 and go up based on speed, up to $500.  They can still fine when there is no work, but the fines are doubled when workers are present (looks like the legislation requires flashing signage similar to PA to signal activity). 

https://www.marylandmatters.org/2024/04/16/increased-fines-public-education-campaign-focus-of-highway-safety-efforts/

I'm more than happy to continue to heed the work zone warnings to avoid said fines, but what I'm really worried about are the drivers who will pay no mind to it and zip past or tailgate you through them.

[bluecountry]

I doubt the MD 200 Intercounty Connector will ever be extended any further east. It was difficult enough trying to get the existing ICC constructed. Even if an extension to the BWP paralleled the power line corridor, there would still be homes and businesses that would need to be demolished, which would likely make such an extension a no-go.

But it looks so easy, the ROW is there, a straight line, and really what good is the ICC without connecting to that corridor?

There's no ROW there except for the power lines. There is absolutely no way you can put a freeway there.

There is ample room, worst case, move them underground or over (they do not take up much space), but come on, that creates such a jam having the ICC not go to the parkway (it really should go to Rt 50).

[cpzilliacus]

Looking at google maps, it appears there is a very easy ROW to accomodate the ICC being extended to at least the BW Parkway.  Has that ever been discussed and why has that not been done, it would seem to be an obvious addition.

It was once planned to run either to US-50 (secret I-595) or to
US-301 (Crain Highway). There was at one point also a spur to
run from the ICC east into Anne Arundel County near MD-3 and
Evergreen Road (or potentially other points along MD-3 in
Anne Arundel County south of I-97.

The Prince George's County planning designation for MD-200
was A-44.  It was to run from its current terminus at US-1 to
the B-W Parkway then turning to a more southerly direction to
an interchange with US-50 near present-day Freeway Airport. 
Some plans had it continuing south to a point south of MD-214
and then merging with US-301, potentially near Leeland Road.

All of this was cancelled, with the rationalization in the
1970's being "it will never be needed" and "everyone will be
riding Metro."

[epzik8]

Looking at google maps, it appears there is a very easy ROW to accomodate the ICC being extended to at least the BW Parkway.  Has that ever been discussed and why has that not been done, it would seem to be an obvious addition.

"Very easy" except for a development of townhouses just opposite US 1 and MARC from the ICC's east end...

[cockroachking]

I doubt the MD 200 Intercounty Connector will ever be extended any further east. It was difficult enough trying to get the existing ICC constructed. Even if an extension to the BWP paralleled the power line corridor, there would still be homes and businesses that would need to be demolished, which would likely make such an extension a no-go.

But it looks so easy, the ROW is there, a straight line, and really what good is the ICC without connecting to that corridor?

There's no ROW there except for the power lines. There is absolutely no way you can put a freeway there.

There is ample room, worst case, move them underground or over (they do not take up much space), but come on, that creates such a jam having the ICC not go to the parkway (it really should go to Rt 50).

I think you underestimate how much utility relocation costs...