On Tuesday, Maryland Sens. Chris Van Hollen, Angela Alsobrooks and Congressman Kweisi Mfume announced that over $85 million in federal funding has been allocated to begin redeveloping Baltimore’s Highway to Nowhere.
Built in the 1970’s, the project destroyed homes and displaced 1,500 residents. In 2021, several Maryland officials shared their intention to remove the highway.
The $85.5 million in federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Reconnecting Communities Program, an initiative included in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, officials said.
The funds will be used to build a cap over one of the blocks of the highway, tear down existing ramps and incorporate safety improvements at certain locations and intersections. The project aims to improve accessibility within nearby neighborhoods in West Baltimore.
"For far too long, the Highway to Nowhere has divided West Baltimore and been a barrier to economic growth and opportunity in Baltimore… with this major $85 million federal investment, work can begin to reunite West Baltimore, revitalize its neighborhoods, and boost opportunity for residents," said Sen. Van Hollen.
It is unclear what the Highway to Nowhere would be replaced with, but in the spring of 2023, state and federal officials secured $2 million for a two-year study to close the highway and create a community-led alternative.
At that time, Rep. Mfume suggested filling the site and replacing it with parts, recreation and entertainment options along with bike lanes.
Source: CBS, WBAL
