During a significant meeting on December 3, 2024, within St. Mary’s County, a crucial decision was made. The St. Mary’s Department of Public Works and Transportation was granted unanimous approval to allocate around $1.6 million for its yearly operating budget. This funding aligns with that provided by the Maryland Department of Transportation and the Federal Transit Administration.

Department’s Ongoing Projects and Funding Allocation

Currently, the Department of Public Works and Transportation is actively engaged in several projects. Immediate funds are being directed towards the construction of 117 new bus stops throughout the county. This transition marks a shift from a primarily flag-based bus system to a more structured bus-stop system. Flag stops, where individuals signal a passing bus to pick them up, have been a common feature. However, bus stops are designated physical locations where regular pick-ups and drop-offs occur.In rural areas, flag stops will still play a vital role. The new bus stops will mainly be situated along major routes like Route 235 and Route 245. Commissioner Mike Hewitt brought to light that members of the Mennonite community have expressed worries about the system changes. Since they have limited driving capabilities, they heavily rely on the existing flag-stop system. In response, the department stated, "We will pick you up at a flag, but we will only drop you off at a stop."

Impact of State Funding Decision

The changes in St. Mary’s County follow Maryland's recent decision to allocate funding for county bus lines based on ridership rates rather than block grants. Neighboring counties like Calvert and Charles offer free bus services and have witnessed an increase in ridership. In contrast, St. Mary’s has not seen similar growth. The St. Mary’s Department of Public Works and Transportation is concerned that stagnant ridership rates could result in a loss of state funding. They hope that the planned improvements to the bus system will stimulate greater usage and ensure the continuation of funding.

Importance of Bus System Improvements

The construction of new bus stops and the transition to a more structured system are essential for the county. It provides better accessibility and convenience for residents. With designated stops, passengers can rely on a more consistent service. This not only benefits those who rely on public transportation but also contributes to the overall development and connectivity of the county. The department's efforts aim to meet the evolving needs of the community and make public transportation more efficient.Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com.