**Maryland and Anne Arundel County Move Forward with $113.8 Million I-97 Widening Project**
Maryland and Anne Arundel County are advancing a $113.8 million plan to widen Interstate 97 between MD 32 and US 50/US 301. This project aims to improve safety and alleviate daily congestion on one of the region’s busiest corridors.
State and local officials highlighted the initiative during an event at First Christian Community Church in Annapolis, ahead of the annual Consolidated Transportation Program meeting.
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### Project Overview and Purpose
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and State Highway Administration (SHA) described the I-97 widening as a critical safety and mobility upgrade for a seven-mile segment currently carrying between 94,000 and 113,400 vehicles per day. Traffic volumes are projected to exceed 135,000 by 2045.
“I-97 is a critical artery in Anne Arundel County for residents, students, commuters, and those visiting Annapolis,” said Acting Maryland Transportation Secretary Samantha J. Biddle.
“Anne Arundel County has been a tremendous partner and advocate for this project. The county’s contribution will help us improve safety and reliability, spur economic vitality for the region, and ensure a state of good repair for this key piece of our highway system.”
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### Bottleneck Relief and Regional Impacts
North of the project area, I-97 already has six lanes; however, this segment currently narrows to four lanes, creating one of Maryland’s worst daily bottlenecks. The issue intensifies during summer weekends as drivers head to the beach.
Widening I-97 is expected to keep more traffic on the interstate, reducing diversion to parallel arterials such as MD 2 and MD 3. This will also improve safety on local roads by decreasing vehicle-pedestrian conflict points.
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### Funding and Local Support
Addressing congestion and safety on I-97 is a top transportation priority for Anne Arundel County. The project has advanced to the engineering phase, supported by the 2025 legislative session.
It will proceed to construction through a county-state funding agreement. Anne Arundel County is contributing roughly $1.2 million for planning and more than $9.4 million toward construction.
“Through this vital investment, we improve safety, ensure good repair, and reduce congestion along this critical interstate corridor,” said Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. “I appreciate the work of the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration in advancing this project for the benefit of our residents.”
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### What the Project Includes
Plans for the I-97 widening project include:
– Adding one travel lane in each direction on I-97 from US 50/US 301 to MD 32/MD 3.
– Improving the I-97 northbound bridge over MD 450 (Defense Highway), as well as the northbound and southbound I-97 bridges over Crownsville Road.
– Installing new stormwater management facilities to address environmental concerns.
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### Design-Build Delivery and Timeline
The SHA will use a Design-Build approach, awarding a single contract to a team responsible for both design and construction. This method allows construction to begin in phases as design progresses.
The agency anticipates selecting a Design-Builder in 2027, with major construction slated to begin in 2028.
“Whether you are traveling to BWI Marshall Airport, Annapolis, or Ocean City, I-97 is a critical interstate connection,” said State Highway Administrator Will Pines. “Working with our county partners, we’ll advance this local and regional priority to support the state’s economy and deliver a safer, more reliable transportation system for all Marylanders.”
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### Legislative Perspective
State Senator Dawn Gile, representing District 33, praised the investment:
“This investment in I-97 is a win for Anne Arundel County and for Maryland. I-97 connects key population and economic centers while running straight through our county. Widening this corridor will improve safety, ease congestion, and strengthen the flow of people and commerce across our state.”
Senator Gile expressed gratitude to Governor Moore, Acting Secretary Biddle, Administrator Pines, and the teams at MDOT and SHA for prioritizing this critical project, which is vital for the region’s future.
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### Annapolis City Council Opposition and Transit-First Alternatives
Despite widespread support, the project faces opposition from some members of the Annapolis City Council.
Alderman Rob Savidge (Ward 7) has voiced concerns and is preparing a resolution against the widening. In his October 12, 2025 newsletter, Savidge argues that expanding I-97 conflicts with the city’s climate goals, Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, and affordable housing commitments.
He warns that increasing highway capacity will induce additional driving rather than solve congestion. Savidge highlights recent parent-led safety protests on West Street as evidence that state funds should focus on crosswalks, pedestrian protections, and transit improvements instead.
He urges the State Highway Administration to evaluate alternatives, including a dedicated bus rapid transit (BRT) lane now and planning for a future fixed-rail connection.
“Both the City and State have agreed to climate goals, Bay restoration goals, and affordable housing goals, yet this proposed expansion works directly against those commitments we have made,” said Alderman Rob Savidge.
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### Additional Information
More details about the I-97 widening project are available through the MDOT SHA Project Portal and in the Draft FY 2026-2031 Consolidated Transportation Program.
For real-time traffic conditions, visit [chart.maryland.gov](https://chart.maryland.gov).
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*This project represents a significant investment to improve a vital corridor in Anne Arundel County and Maryland. As the plans progress, public input and environmental considerations will continue to shape its development.*
https://www.eyeonannapolis.net/2025/10/sha-to-widen-i-97-to-six-lanes-between-route-32-and-us-50-301/