W Patapsco Ave Rehabilitation

The W Patapsco Ave Rehabilitation Project aims to rehabilitate and modernize the existing roadway. Key elements include replacing concrete joints and slabs, enhancing facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians, and adding landscaping.

This project will coordinate with several overlapping initiatives, such as the proposed MTA pedestrian bridge, a new DPW water line, and storm drain improvements.

Meetings

Did you miss the West Patapsco Avenue Rehabilitation Community Meeting? Watch the complete video below to learn about the project, its goals, and how it will enhance safety and accessibility along West Patapsco Avenue.

Topics Discussed:

• The purpose and need for the rehabilitation project.
• Existing roadway issues, including drainage, pedestrian safety, and pavement conditions.
• Proposed improvements, such as lane reductions, shared-use paths, and ADA-compliant sidewalks.
• Traffic calming measures and potential speed limit reductions.
• Integration of drainage and water line projects to avoid repeated construction phases.
• Construction phases and efforts to minimize disruption for residents, businesses, and commuters.
• Coordination with community members, businesses, and other agencies to ensure project success.
• Timeline, project cost, and funding sources.

Why is this project necessary?

• Rehabilitate Roadway Pavement: Address the deteriorating pavement conditions.
• Accommodate Non-Motorists: In line with Baltimore City’s Complete Streets Ordinance & Design Guidelines, this project will ensure the inclusion of:
  • Pedestrians: Currently not accommodated.
  • Bicyclists: Following the Baltimore City Bike Masterplan.

What are the existing conditions?

The roadway is currently in disrepair, with various deficiencies in pedestrian and bicycle accommodations.

What improvements will be made to the roadway?

Roadway Improvements

• Concrete Pavement Rehabilitation: Originally constructed in the early 1960s.
• Repairs: Includes curbs, streetlights, inlets, guardrails, etc.
• Pedestrian Enhancements: New pedestrian lights will be installed in the commercial area.
• Traffic Modifications:
  • Modify the traffic signal at the Light Rail Station entrance.
  • Modify the traffic signal at Potee St.
• Signage and Markings: Installation of new signing and pavement markings.

How will pedestrians and bicyclists be accommodated?

• Shared-Use Path & Sidewalks: ADA-compliant paths and sidewalks protected by green island buffers.
• Lane Reductions: Adjust lane configurations to enhance safety and reduce traffic speeds.

How will this project coordinate with other initiatives?

New Drainage System: Coordinated with DPW. New Watermain: Managed by DPW.	New Pedestrian Bridge: Managed by MTA.	E. Patapsco Avenue Project	Copart Development Project

Why can't the roadway be widened?

• Roadway Widening: Not feasible due to:
  • Limited right-of-way.
  • High costs.
  • Environmental impacts.
  • Roadway overcapacity.
• Lane Reduction: Convert from 3 lanes each way to 2 lanes each way while maintaining middle left-turn bays. This will create a safer environment for all road users.

Existing Roadway Sections

Proposed Roadway Sections

Roadway Plan West of the Light Rail Station Entrance

Roadway Plan at Light Rail Station Entrance Shared-Use Path and Sidewalk Switch Sides

Roadway Plan Up to the Patapsco Avenue Bridge

Roadway Plan up to Potee St.

What are the Complete Streets elements?

• Roadway Repurposing: Lane reductions to accommodate all users.
• Shared-Use Path: Continuous pathways for pedestrians and bicyclists.
• Green Island Buffers: For added safety and aesthetic improvement.
• Landscaping: Coordination with the RLA for green spaces.
• Curb Extensions: To improve pedestrian safety.
• Pedestrian-Friendly Traffic Signals: Particularly at the Light Rail Station.
• Crosswalks & Signage: New crosswalks, signage, and pavement markings.
• Lighting: Installation of new lighting for enhanced visibility.
• Drainage Improvements: To manage stormwater effectively.
• General Repairs: Includes curbs, inlets, and other roadway elements.

How much will the construction cost, and how will it be funded?

Estimated Cost: Preliminary cost estimates are around $20 million. Federal funds will be utilized for both design and construction.

What should residents expect during construction?

• Property Access: Maintained throughout the project. Any minor inconveniences will be coordinated.
• Travel Lanes: At least one lane in each direction will remain open; no detours are anticipated.
• MTA Access: Access to the Light Rail Station and bus stops will be maintained, with temporary adjustments as needed.
• Construction Hours: Typically 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

What challenges might this project face?

• High Project Cost & Length: Significant resources and time will be required.
• Scope Consensus: Achieving consensus among the community and stakeholders.
• Dependence on New Drainage System: Separate project/agency involvement.
• Environmental Permits: NEPA, Wetlands, and Critical Area approvals required.
• Complete Streets Implementation: Considerations for constructability and coordination.
• Federal Aid Process: Involves a longer timeline.
• Sight Distance Issues: Landscaping impacts to be managed.
• Right-of-Way Constraints: Limited space for bicycle, truck, and bus routes.
• Coordination with MTA and DPW: Essential for the success of overlapping projects.