DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FUNCTIONS

OFFICE OF SECRETARY

Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, the Secretary of Transportation heads the Department.

Harry R. Hughes Department of Transportation Building, 7201 Corporate Center Drive, Hanover, Maryland, May 2009. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Under direction of the Secretary, the Department of Transportation oversees five administrations: Aviation, State Highway, Motor Vehicle, Port, and Transit. The other component of Maryland's transportation system is the Maryland Transportation Authority. Although chaired by the Secretary, it is not overseen by the Department.

Advising the Secretary on transportation matters are the Board of Airport Zoning Appeals; the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Construction Advisory Group: the Citizens Committee for the Enhancement of Communities Surrounding Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport; the Minority Business Enterprise Advisory Committee; the Maryland Transportation Commission; the Advisory Committee on Transportation Goals, Benchmarks, and Indicators; and the State Roads Commission (Code Transportation Article, secs. 2-101 through 2-103).

Within the Office of Secretary, one deputy secretary heads Operations, while the other deputy secretary is responsible for Policy, Planning, and Enterprise Services.

Four offices report directly to the Secretary: Audits; Finance; General Counsel; and Public Affairs. The Office of Secretary also is aided by six boards and committees.

BOARD OF AIRPORT ZONING APPEALS
Formed in 1968, the Board of Airport Zoning Appeals helps enforce noise zone regulations for Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport (Chapter 450, Acts of 1968). These regulations establish a "noise zone" around the Airport, which lies in northern Anne Arundel County, just south of Baltimore City. In this zone, new land development is prohibited if it is incompatible with Airport noise levels. In cases of practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship, the Board grants specific variances from Airport zoning regulations.

The Board's ten members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with the Secretary of Transportation's advice and Senate advice and consent. The Governor names the chair (Code Transportation Article, secs. 5-501 through 5-511).

CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION ADVISORY GROUP
In May 2020, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Reconstruction Advisory Group was created by the General Assembly (Chapter 611, Acts of 2020).

The Advisory Group advises the Maryland Transportation Authority from a citizens' perspective on operations of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Further, the Advisory Group helps the Maryland Transportation Authority resolve traffic and customer service issues, assess potential concerns, and educate the public on activities involving the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Annually, the Advisory Group reports to the Governor and General Assembly. Also, it informs the Maryland Transportation Authority quarterly concerning its activities and recommendations.

CITIZENS COMMITTEE FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF COMMUNITIES SURROUNDING BALTIMORE-WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL THURGOOD MARSHALL AIRPORT
The Citizens Committee for the Enhancement of Communities Surrounding Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport was created as the Citizens Committee for the Enhancement of Communities Surrounding Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Airport in October 2001 (Chapter 589, Acts of 2001), and adopted its present name on October 1, 2005.

The Committee recommends to the Secretary of Transportation funding for projects designed to address transportation issues that affect the quality of life of communities surrounding Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Appointed by the Secretary of Transportation, Committee members serve three-year terms (Code Transportation Article, sec. 5-414).

MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Formed in 1991, the Minority Business Enterprise Advisory Committee makes recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation on certifications, nonrenewals, and expansion of services for minority business enterprises (COMAR 12.11.03.16). Further, the Committee advises the Secretary on creating, developing, and implementing minority business enterprise policy.

Of the Committee's twelve members, eight represent agencies of State Government, and four the general public.

MARYLAND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
When the Department of Transportation was formed in 1970, the Maryland Transportation Commission also was authorized by the General Assembly (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). With the Department, the Commission began functioning in July 1971.

The State transportation system is studied the by the Commission, which advises the Secretary of Transportation and Department administrators on policy and programs (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970).

Seventeen members constitute the Commission. Ten are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Transportation. The seven regional members of the State Roads Commission serve ex officio. The Governor names the chair (Code Transportation Article, secs. 2-201 through 2-205).

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION GOALS, BENCHMARKS, & INDICATORS
In October 2000, the Advisory Committee on Transportation Goals, Benchmarks, and Indicators was authorized (Chapter 303, Acts of 2000).

The Committee advises the Department on developing measurable, long-term transportation goals and intermediate benchmarks of progress towards those goals. Annually, the Department submits a report on how these goals and benchmarks are being attained in implementation of the Maryland Transportation Plan and the Consolidated Transportation Program (Code Transportation Article, sec. 2-103.1).

The Committee is convened only cyclicly when goals and benchmarks are evaluated for potential changes. It most recently reconvened in January 2018, and produced the 2019 Annual Attainment Report.

POLICY, PLANNING, & ENTERPRISE SERVICES

Harry R. Hughes Department of Transportation Building, 7201 Corporate Center Drive, Hanover, Maryland, May 2009. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENT
As the Office of Environmental Programs, the Office of Environment was created under the Assistant Secretary for Administration in January 2006, and in July 2010 adopted its present name. The Office of Environment transferred to the Deputy Secretary for Administration and Operations in August 2013, and moved again in July 2015 under the Office of Planning and Capital Programming. In February 2018, it was placed directly under the Deputy Secretary for Policy, Planning, and Enterprise Services.

For the Department's five administrations and the Maryland Transportation Authority, the Office of Environment provides guidance in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. It also facilitates environmental stewardship and sustainability with transportation services and systems.

OFFICE OF FLEET, FACILITIES, & ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

OFFICE OF MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
The Office of Minority Business Enterprise certifies businesses for participation in the State's Minority Business Enterprise Program and the federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program. Designated by the Board of Public Works, the Office is the only State agency to make such certifications.

Established in 1978, the Minority Business Enterprise Program encourages minority-owned businesses to participate in the State procurement process (Chapter 575, Acts of 1978). At least 25% of contracts awarded by State agencies are reserved for businesses certified by the Office. To be eligible, a business must be at least 51% -owned and -controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged persons who may be African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Native American, female, or disabled. Further, a business must meet eligibility requirements for personal net worth.

The Office maintains the MBE Internet Directory, a listing of businesses certified by the Office. In addition, the Office coordinates and administers the Department's Minority Business Enterprise Program and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program.

OFFICE OF PLANNING & CAPITAL PROGRAMMING
The Office of Planning and Capital Programming started as the Office of Planning, and adopted its present name in October 2007.

For the Department of Transportation, the Office is responsible for planning, including capital planning, regional planning, and related programs, such as air quality attainment, bicycle and pedestrian access, community enhancements, and transit-oriented development. The Office also oversees the Consolidated Transportation Program, which functions as a draft six-year transportation budget. Annually, the Program lists and describes in detail those capital transportation projects proposed for construction or development and evaluation for the next six years.

Further, the Office partners with Maryland's six designated metropolitan planning orgainzations, which are the regional agencies responsible for transportation planning. They include the Baltimore Regional Transportation Board; the Cumberland Area Metropolitan Planning Organization; the Hagerstown-Eastern Panhandle Metropolitan Planning Organization; the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board; the Salisbury-Wicomico Metropolitan Planning Organization; and the Wilmington Area Planning Council. The Office also works with Maryland's seven regional planning councils: the Baltimore Metropolitan Council; the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments; the Mid-Shore Regional Council; the Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland; the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland; the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland; and the Upper Shore Regional Council.

Since April 2019, the Office directs three divisions: Asset Management and Capital Planning; Innovative Technologies and Regional Planning; and Transportation Planning.

OFFICE OF POLICY & REGULATIONS

RECORDS MANAGEMENT
Since October 1, 2017, the Department of Transportation has had a program for the continual, economical and efficient management of its records. The Department's Records Officer develops and oversees the program, and serves as liaison to the Records Management Division of the Department of General Services, and to the State Archives (Chapter 539, Acts of 2017; Code State Government Article, secs. 10-608 through 10-611).

OFFICE OF REAL ESTATE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Office of Real Estate and Economic Development began as the Office of Real Estate, and reorganized under its present name in October 2015.

Primarily, the Office is responsible for disposing of excess real estate owned by the Department of Transportation. The Office also promotes development related to transit and the Port of Baltimore.

OFFICE OF TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
The Office of Transportation Technology Services develops, coordinates, and implements information technology services to meet Department needs. For the Department, the Office provides centralized computing and network infrastructure services. Its data center with a mainframe computer has applications for the Titling and Registration Information System and Drivers Licensing Processing System of the Motor Vehicle Administration; the Marine Terminal System of the Maryland Port Administration; as well as the Financial Management Information System and the payroll system of the Department.

Certain server-based applications are run by the Office. These include the Maryland International Registration Plan, which processes registrations of interstate commercial vehicles and associated fees. In addition, the Office joins with a contractor to operate a wide area network (WAN) connecting computer users from transportation business units of the Department with headquarters, and certain State networks with external vendor networks associated with the work of the Department's transportation business units.

POLICY ANALYSIS & PLANNING

BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN ACCESS
Within the Office of the Secretary, the position of Director of Bicycle and Pedestrian Access was authorized in 2000 (Chapter 670, Acts of 2000). As a unit, Bicycle and Pedestrian Access was part of the Office of Planning and Capital Programming until October 2015, when it moved directly under the Deputy Secretary for Policy, Planning, and Enterprise Services.

The Director of Bicycle and Pedestrian Access is responsible for developing the Statewide 20-Year Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan (Code Transportation Article, sec. 2-604).

Under Bicycle and Pedestrian Access, the Bikeways Program provides grants to local jurisdictions and organizations for developing bicycle networks. In July 2020, the Program was established in statute as the Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program (Chapter 310, Acts of 2020; Code Transportation Article, sec. 2-608).

OPERATIONS

Today, Operations is responsible for five administrations: Aviation, State Highway, Motor Vehicle, Port, and Transit. It also is aided by three offices: Homeland Security, Procurement, and Risk Management and Safety.

OFFICE OF HOMELAND SECURITY, EMERGENCY SERVICES, & RAIL SAFETY
Emergency management had been the responsibility of the Office of Administrative Services in 1995.This function transferred to the Office of Emergency Services in 2002. Renamed the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in 2007, the Office reformed under its present name in 2012.

Under Operations, the Office of Homeland Security, Emergency Services, and Rail Safety oversees Emergency Services and Homeland Security, and the Risk Management and Safety Program for the Department.

EMERGENCY SERVICES & HOMELAND SECURITY

OFFICE OF PROCUREMENT
For the Department of Transportation, the Office of Procurement procures nearly two billion dollars worth of goods and services, ranging from license plate stickers to multi-million dollar container cranes for the Maryland Port Administration.

OFFICE OF RISK MANAGEMENT & SAFETY
The Office of Risk Management and Safety is responsible for rail transit safety and security oversight in Maryland. This oversight extends to both the Maryland Transit Administration and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.

MARYLAND AVIATION COMMISSION

The Commission establishes policies for Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport, and approves policies and regulations for the operation of Martin State Airport and for major capital projects of the Administration.

Terminal Building entrance, BWI-Thurgood Marshall Airport, Maryland, September 2008. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

MARYLAND AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

Martin State Airport, P. O. Box 1, 701 Wilson Point Road, Baltimore, MD 21220 - 0001

The Maryland Aviation Administration originated in 1929 when the State Aviation Commission was established (Chapter 318, Acts of 1929). The State Aviation Administration replaced the Commission and became a unit of the Department of Transportation in 1971 (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). The Administration was renamed in 1989 as the Maryland Aviation Administration (Chapter 108, Acts of 1990).

Under direction of the Maryland Aviation Commission since 1994, the Maryland Aviation Administration develops and operates airports and fosters and regulates aeronautical activity within the State.

Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport, the State's major air carrier facility, is operated by the Administration. The Airport started as Friendship International Airport, which began operation in 1950. From Baltimore City, the State was authorized to purchase Friendship International Airport in 1972 (Chapter 180, Acts of 1972). The Airport was renamed Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Airport in 1973 and became Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport on October 1, 2005 (Chapter 442, Acts of 2005).

The Maryland Aviation Administration also supervises the operation of the Martin State Airport in Baltimore County. Martin was purchased by the State in 1975.

For safety, the Administration inspects and licenses commercial airports, air schools, and air school instructors. It fosters safety in aviation through educational seminars for pilots and mechanics, and through its publications, including a combined Maryland airports directory and aeronautical chart.

To airport sponsors and owners, the Administration provides technical and financial assistance in the preparation of master plans and in improvements to facilities. Standardized runway markings are applied and maintained at airports throughout the State. In cooperation with other agencies, the Administration has prepared a Maryland Aviation System Plan (Code Transportation Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-1205).

The Administration's Executive Director is appointed by the Secretary of Transportation with the Governor's approval and Maryland Aviation Commission advice.

Formerly under the Administration were four main units: Business Management and Administration; Facilities Development and Engineering; Operations and Maintenance; and Technology, Human Resources, Safety, and Training. In October 2015, the Aviation Administration reorganized into six divisions: Administration and Performance Management; Business Development and Management; BWI Airport Operations; Marketing and Air Service Development; Martin State Airport Operations; and Planning and Engineering. The Administration also oversees the Office of Regional Aviation Assistance.

OFFICE OF REGIONAL AVIATION ASSISTANCE
The Office of Regional Aviation Assistance fosters, develops, and regulates aeronautical activities within Maryland. Annually, the Office inspects, licenses, and registers those airports in compliance with State regulations. Some 136 airports operate in the State. Of these, 36 are public-use facilities, and three offer scheduled air carrier service.

DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATION & PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
The Division of Administration and Performance Management began as Technology and Community Affairs and became Technology, Human Resources, Safety, and Training in 2010. At that time, it was responsible for four offices: Business Relations; Human Resources; Safety, Training, and Risk Management; and Technology. In an October 2015 reorganization, it assumed its present name.

The Division oversees five offices: Administrative Services; Fair Practices; Human Resources; Organizational Development; and Safety and Risk Management.

DIVISION OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MANAGEMENT
Business Development and Management started in April 2002 as Development and Administration. It reorganized in July 2003 as Business Management and Administration, and adopted its current name in October 2015.

Business Development and Management functions through five offices: Capital Programs, Commercial Management, Finance, Ground Transportation, and Procurement.

DIVISION OF BWI AIRPORT OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
The Division of BWI Airport Operations and Maintenance organized in April 2002 as Airport Operations, became Operations and Security in July 2003, and Operations, Public Safety, and Security in August 2005. In January 2008, it combined with Maintenance, Utilities, and Terminal Service to form Operations and Maintenance. In October 2015, it reorganized into two separate divisions: BWI Airport Operations, and Martin State Airport Operations. The Division of BWI Airport Operations later reformed as the Division of BWI Airport Operations and Maintenance.

Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport is overseen by the Division of BWI Airport Operations and Maintenance (Code Transportation Article, secs. 5-404 through 5-415). The Division also supervises five offices: BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Operations; Fire and Rescue; Maintenance and Utilities; Security; and Terminal and Landside Operations. The Division also serves as liaison to the Maryland Transportation Authority Police detachment assigned to BWI and the Director of the federal Transportation Security Administration.

DIVISION OF MARTIN STATE AIRPORT OPERATIONS
Formerly overseen by Operations and Maintenance, Martin State Airport Operations was made into a separate division in October 2015.

DIVISION OF PLANNING & ENGINEERING
In January 2010, the Division of Planning and Engineering started as Facilities Development and Engineering, which oversaw five offices: Capital Programs; Design and Construction; Noise and Land Use Compatability; Planning and Environmental Services; and Procurement. Later, Facilities Development and Engineering became Development and Environmental Services, and reverted to its original name in July 2010. In October 2015, it restructured as the Division of Planning and Engineering with oversight of four offices: Design and Construction, Environmental Services, Planning, and Real Estate and Noise Abatement.

Since reorganization in April 2019, the Division is responsible for four offices: Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Environmental Services, and Planning and Real Estate.

STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION

Although Maryland's first road law was enacted in 1666, the construction and maintenance of roads originally were responsibilities of the counties. The State did not take action to improve Maryland roads until 1898, when the General Assembly ordered the State Geological and Economic Survey to examine and report on the condition of Maryland roads. State aid for road building then was first authorized in 1904 and supervised by the Highway Division of the Survey Commission (Chapter 225, Acts of 1904). Authorized in 1906, the first State road was called the Public Highway (known as State Road no. 1) (Chapter 132, Acts of 1906). Constructed by the Survey Commission's Highway Division, it linked Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge, Solomons, Maryland, April 2019. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Under the State Highway Administration are three main offices: Administration; Operations; and Planning, Engineering, Real Estate, and Environment. The Administration is aided by the State Highway Access Valuation Board, and the State Roads Commission.

STATE ROADS COMMISSION
P. O. Box 717, 707 North Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21203 - 0717

Origins of the State Roads Commission date to 1904 when highway survey functions were assigned to the Maryland Geological and Economic Survey. In 1908, the State Roads Commission assumed those duties and additional responsibilities as well (Chapter 141, Acts of 1908). The Chair of the State Roads Commission was the Director of Highways. In 1971, the State Roads Commission became part of the Department of Transportation (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). At that time, most Commission duties were assumed by the State Highway Administration, and the Director became State Highway Administrator.

Condemnation proceedings to acquire property needed for highway purposes are authorized by the State Roads Commission (Chapter 607, Acts of 1941, ratified Nov. 3, 1942; Constitution, Art. III, sec. 40B; Code Transportation Article, secs. 8-210 through 8-339).

The Commission consists of eight members. Seven are appointed to five-year terms by the Secretary of Transportation with the Governor's approval. Serving part-time, they are appointed from seven geographic areas. The chair is the State Highway Administrator (Code Transportation Article, secs. 8-210 through 8-218).

OFFICE OF POLICY & RESEARCH
In 1994, the Office of Policy and Research started as the Office of Highway Policy Assessment, was renamed the Office of Highway Policy and Technology Utilization in July 1998, and received its present name in March 1999.

The Office seeks to ensure that Maryland derives optimal benefits from the federal highway program. Representing the State on technical issues and policy, the Office works with the Federal Highway Administration, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and kindred groups. The Office also works with other units to analyze issues, develop policy, and recommend State and federal highway legislation.

ADMINISTRATION

Under Administration are five offices: Administration; Audits; Equal Opportunity; Information Technology; and Procurement and Contract Management.

OPERATIONS

In 1908, Operations began with the creation of the State Roads Commission. Commision duties were assumed by the State Highway Administration through the Office of Chief Engineer in 1971. The Office reorganized as Operations in August 2000.

Operations is responsible for the engineering of highways and bridges under the jurisdiction of the State Highway Administration. The Chief Engineer provides guidance to the District Engineers and monitors the whole program.

Under Operations are the District Engineers and six offices: Construction; Coordinated Highways Action Response Team (CHART) and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Development; Homeland Security and Occupational Safety; Maintenance; Materials and Technology; and Traffic and Safety. The Chief Engineer is responsible for the Coordinated Highways Action Response Team.

DISTRICT ENGINEERS
District Engineers work to provide the traveling public with safe roads. Within their geographic areas, District Engineers administer and implement programs and policies of the State Highway Administration and Department of Transportation. They oversee bridge and road construction and maintenance; develop and manage district budgets; and recommend improvements for traffic.

The State Highway Administration has divided the State into seven engineering districts. District Engineers represent the State Highway Administration in all public matters at the district level. They also make recommendations to and coordinate their work with representatives of the Federal Highway Administration, the Department of Transportation, other State agencies, local government, and the public.

OFFICE OF CONSTRUCTION
The Office of Construction works to expedite highway construction and reconstruction projects. The Office processes contracts, pays contractors, inspects construction projects, and establishes policies and procedures for projects in the State highway system.

OFFICE OF COORDINATED HIGHWAYS ACTION RESPONSE TEAM (CHART) & INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS

COORDINATED HIGHWAYS ACTION RESPONSE TEAM (CHART)
STATEWIDE OPERATIONS CENTER
Hal Kassoff Statewide Operations Center, 7491 Connelley Drive, Hanover, MD 21076

The Coordinated Highways Action Response Team began as part of the "Reach the Beach" initiative in the mid-1980s. Its Statewide Operations Center opened as the Chesapeake Highway Advisories Routing Traffic (CHART) Center in August 1995. Both the program and the Center were renamed in 1999.

To improve the flow of vehicular traffic throughout Maryland, the Coordinated Highways Action Response Team (CHART) Statewide Operations Center works with advanced technology. The Center monitors 375 miles of interstate highways and 170 miles of State roads to evaluate traffic conditions. It is a cooperative effort of the State Highway Administration, the Department of Transportation, the Department of State Police, and other State, local and federal government agencies. The Center receives traffic data from technology developed for this purpose and from State agencies with vehicles on Maryland highways.

To determine causes of traffic congestion, the Center uses closed-circuit television cameras mounted on poles above roads. To monitor traffic speed, it has radar and detectors embedded in roadways. This information is transmitted to Center computers. There, traffic speeds are displayed graphically by color for quick assessment, and selected film footage is reviewed.

Once the Center pinpoints traffic snarls and their causes, it informs motorists so they can choose other routes. Whenever possible, Center officials post alternate routes by automatically adjusting electronic traffic signs. Traveler information also is broadcasted via State travelers advisory radio stations, other radio stations, and television.

OFFICE OF MAINTENANCE
The Office of Maintenance advises the Administrator about highway maintenance and equipment needs, facilities management, emergency response, and manpower and resource allocation. The Office also purchases, installs, and repairs wireless communications devices used in the State highway system. Technicians service devices such as travelers advisory radio, closed circuit television, overhead speed detectors, weather information systems, and two-way radios (Code Transportation Article, secs. 8-601 through 8-655).

OFFICE OF MATERIALS & TECHNOLOGY
The Office of Materials and Technology evaluates and tests materials used in the State highway infrastructure. Services also are provided to counties and municipalities, and other State agencies.

Hot asphalt mix, concrete, and metals are monitored through four regional laboratories: Central Regional Laboratory, Brooklandville (Baltimore County); Southern Regional Laboratory, Greenbelt (Prince George's County); Eastern Regional Laboratory, Easton (Talbot County); and Western Regional Laboratory, Hancock (Washington County).

OFFICE OF TRAFFIC & SAFETY
In 1991, the Office of Traffic and Safety formed.

The Office operates and maintains some 3,000 electrical traffic control devices statewide, and provides maintenance assistance to the State Highway Districts for highway signs, particularly large or overhead installations. It also develops, coordinates, and manages the statewide inspection and weighing of commercial vehicles; manages the Maryland Automated Accident Reporting System, and provides data analysis and technical support for the Activities Report of the Maryland Motor Carrier Program. In addition, the Office analyzes and disseminates highway safety statistics, and plans, designs, and engineers solutions to traffic problems.

For commercial motor vehicles, the Office has multiple responsibilities. It issues permits for vehicles that exceed legal size and weight limits; formulates and monitors the State's annual Commercial Vehicle Safety Plan; and publishes the Maryland Trucker's Handbook and Maryland Trucker's Map.

PLANNING, ENGINEERING, REAL ESTATE, & ENVIRONMENT

This division oversees five offices: Environmental Design; Highway Development; Planning and Preliminary Engineering; Real Estate; and Structures.

OFFICE OF PLANNING & PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING
Created in 1985, the Office of Planning and Preliminary Engineering directs and manages systems planning and project planning for the State Highway Administration and develops the six-year capital program of the Administration.

OFFICE OF REAL ESTATE
The Office of Real Estate dates from 1930 when the Right-of-Way Department was created under the State Roads Commission. In 1997, the Office was placed under the Office of Chief Engineer. In August 2000, it moved to Planning and Engineering.

For the construction of State Highway Administration projects in the Consolidated Transportation Program, the Office of Real Estate directs statewide acquisition of land and relocation of people and businesses. If the amicable purchase of land is not possible, the Office requests authorization from the State Roads Commission to condemn property. The Office also leases properties of the State Highway Administration, sells excess land parcels, and licenses billboards and other outdoor advertising along State highways (Code Transportation Article, secs. 8-301 through 8-339).

OFFICE OF STRUCTURES

MOTOR VEHICLE ADMINISTRATION

Motor Vehicle Administration, 6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Glen Burnie, Maryland, October 2002. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

• New to Maryland driver license & vehicle registration

Businesses and occupations relating to motor vehicles are licensed by the Administration. These include motor vehicle dealers and salesmen; driving instructors and those who operate drivers' schools; title service agents; automotive dismantlers, recyclers, and scrap processors; and, for certain purposes, motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, and those who run factory branches (Code Transportation Article, secs. 15-101 through 15-807).

Oversized replica of yellow crash-test dummy with safety belt, Motor Vehicle Administration, 6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Glen Burnie, Maryland, September 2014. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The Administration's main functions are carried out by three divisions: Central Operations and Safety Programs; Field Operations; and Support Services (Code Transportation Article, secs. 12-101 through 12-209).

Units reporting directly to the Administrator include Audit, External Affairs, Financial Services, the Maryland Highway Safety Office, Information Technology, and Investigations. The Administrator also is aided by the Autonomous and Connected Vehicle Working Group.

AUTONOMOUS & CONNECTED VEHICLE WORKING GROUP
In 2015, the Secretary of Transportation convened the Autonomous and Connected Vehicle Working Group.

To ensure the safety of self-driving vehicles, the Working Group studies and evaluates current research, and federal laws, policies, and programs as they relate to the use of autonomous and connected vehicles.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
In 1992, Information Technology began as the Information Systems Center. Renamed the Information Resources Division in October 1997, and the Office of Information Resources in January 1998, it became Information Resources in April 2008 and received its present name in March 2010.

Information Technology provides information technology services to the Department, federal and State agencies, and the private sector.

INVESTIGATIONS
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 102, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Investigations was created as the Division of Investigative Services and became Investigative and Security Services in July 1997. Formerly under Field Operations, it was placed under Special Operations in 1997. In April 2004, it became an independent unit under the Motor Vehicle Administrator. In April 2008, it further reorganized as Investigation and Internal Affairs and again as Investigations in March 2010.

Violations of the Maryland Vehicle Law, including fraudulent drivers' licenses and vehicle ownership documents, are investigated by this unit. Following complaints of alcohol or drug abuse, or physical or mental impairment, individuals applying to reinstate driving privileges are investigated by the unit. Investigations enforces provisions of the Maryland Vehicle Law concerned with compulsory insurance, titling, and registration. Upon request, it also provides support to local law enforcement agencies.

The Telecommunications Center of Investigations provides motor vehicle information to law enforcement agencies daily from 8:00 a.m. until midnight. The Center is linked to the National Crime Information Center, and the Maryland Interagency Law Enforcement System.

CENTRAL OPERATIONS & SAFETY PROGRAMS

This division oversees two offices: Driver Programs, and Vehicle Programs. Also under the division are Driver Safety; and Project Management. The Division is aided by the Medical Advisory Board.

MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD
Appointed by the Motor Vehicle Administrator, the Medical Advisory Board consists of qualified physicians and optometrists who advise the Administrator on medical aspects of driver licensing. Whenever a person's physical or mental condition may affect driving ability, the Administrator relies on the Board for professional guidance (Code Transportation Article, sec. 16-118).

OFFICE OF DRIVER PROGRAMS
The Office of Driver Programs started as Driver Education and Licensing, and assumed its current name in 2006.

Under the Office are four units: Administrative Adjudication; Driver Instructional Services; Driver Services; and Driver Wellness and Safety.

ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 227, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Hearing officers of the Division of Administrative Adjudication conduct administrative hearings to determine appropriate action to take against errant drivers, business firms, and others who violate State motor vehicle laws. The Division suspends, revokes, and restricts driving privileges on the basis of a driver's refusal to take chemical tests, alcohol-related convictions, and other convictions resulting from motor vehicle law violations. The Division also administers Maryland's participation with forty other states in the Driver License Compact (one license, one record) (Code Transportation Article, secs. 16-701 through 16-708).

DRIVER INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 207, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Driver Instructional Services derives from the Division of Driver Control and Records which became Driver Control in 1995.

Driving privileges of individuals who fail to appear in court after receiving a motor vehicle citation are suspended by the Division. The Division also distributes citation books to law enforcement officers and accounts for citations issued.

Within the Division are the central license file and case history files. Certified copies of driving records are available from the Division.

Driver Instructional Services oversees four programs: Alcohol Education; Driver Education; Driver Improvement; and Motorcycle Safety.

Alcohol Education Program. For drivers convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or driving while intoxicated, Driver Instructional Services oversees their assessment, referral to an appropriate instructional program, and verification that they have completed the instruction.

Driver Education Program. (Code Transportation Article, secs. 16-501 through 16-507).

Driver Improvement Program. Established in 1962, the Program provides court-ordered instruction to drivers requiring rehabilitation.

Motorcycle Safety Program. Created in 1983, the Program works to improve motorcycle safety by rider education and a public awareness program that promotes the concept of "sharing the road" (Chapter 674, Acts of 1983; Code Transportation Article, secs. 16-601 through 16-606; 21-301 through 21-1306.1).

DRIVER SERVICES
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 207, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Driver Services originated as the Division of Licensing and School Vehicle Safety. In 1995, it was renamed the Division of Driver Licensing and School Vehicle Safety. Within the Operations Division, it reorganized in 1997 as Driver Services.

Examinations of all new drivers and renewals of motor vehicle drivers' licenses are conducted by the Division. Examinations test vision, knowledge of motor vehicle laws, and ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Licensees also must meet age and lawful status requirements (Code Transportation Article, secs. 16-101 through 16-407).

Maryland licenses are classified according to the type of vehicle the driver will operate. The five kinds of licenses are:

Class A - tractor-trailers
Class B - trucks over 20,000 lbs. gross weight
Class C - buses
Class D - automobiles, station wagons, & trucks up to 20,000 lbs. gross weight
Class E - motorcycles

Examinations are held at the Motor Vehicle Administration in Glen Burnie and at branch offices in Annapolis, Baltimore City, Bel Air, Beltsville, Cumberland, Easton, Elkton, Essex, Frederick, Gaithersburg, Hagerstown, Largo, Loveville, Oakland, Salisbury, Silver Spring (White Oak), Waldorf, and Westminster.

Driver Services also administers the Commercial Drivers License Program.

COMMERCIAL DRIVERS LICENSE PROGRAM
The Commercial Drivers License Program tests and issues drivers licenses to individuals who drive commercial motor vehicles. To drive a commercial vehicle across state lines, drivers must meet certain physical requirements outlined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (CFR Title 49, Section 391.41(b)) and pass a driving test administered by examiners trained by the Motor Vehicle Administration. Individuals who do not meet the federal physical standards but pass the driving test may apply for an intrastate waiver which restricts them to driving in Maryland (Code Transportation Article, secs. 16-801 through 16-820).

DRIVER WELLNESS & SAFETY
Driver Wellness and Safety reviews the cases of drivers who have lost their driving privileges or have driving restrictions due to medical conditions or court action. Further, Driver Wellness and Safety also is responsible for the Ignition Interlock Program, in which a driver is required to install an Alcohol Breath-Analyzed Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle.

OFFICE OF VEHICLE PROGRAMS
Established in 2006, the Office of Vehicle Programs oversees Business Licensing and Consumer Services; Insurance Compliance; Motor Carrier and Electronic Services; Vehicle Records; and Vehicle Services.

BUSINESS LICENSING & CONSUMER SERVICES
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 101, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Business Licensing and Consumer Services was first called the Division of Licensing and Consumer Services and reorganized as Business Licensing and Consumer Services in January 1998. It became Business Licensing in March 2010, and reverted to its former name in October 2015.

This office licenses new and used motor vehicle dealers, wholesalers, distributors, salespersons, and manufacturers; automotive dismantlers, recyclers, and scrap processors; professional driving schools; and title service agents. With its licensing and investigative powers, the office ensures that dealers and others in the automotive business honor their agreements and warranties. Consumer complaints also are handled by the office (Code Transportation Article, secs. 15-101 through 15-807).

INSURANCE COMPLIANCE
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 217, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Insurance Compliance began as the Division of Financial Responsibility and adopted its current name in 1997.

Maryland's compulsory insurance law to ensure that required insurance is maintained continuously for registered vehicles is administered by Insurance Compliance. Under the law, all Maryland licensed insurance companies are required to notify the Motor Vehicle Administration of terminations or lapses of liability insurance policies that occur within the policy's first six months. Insurance Compliance, on a random sample basis, verifies the coverage of at least 10 percent of registered vehicle owners. Vehicle tags are suspended for those motorists who fail to present the required evidence of insurance.

Insurance Compliance receives motor vehicle accident reports from motorists involved in accidents that have resulted in personal injury or property damage in excess of $100 and that have not been investigated by police authorities. Persons who fail to satisfy judgments arising from uninsured motor vehicle accidents have their driving and registration privileges suspended by Insurance Compliance.

VEHICLE RECORDS


VEHICLE SERVICES
6601 Ritchie Highway, NE, Room 120, Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Vehicle Services originated as the Division of Vehicle Registration. It was renamed Vehicle Services in 1997.

This unit titles and registers all passenger and commercial vehicles in Maryland. It issues license plates, and collects the six-percent excise tax imposed on vehicles titled in the State and the annual registration fees (Code Transportation Article, secs. 13-101 through 13-955).

Vehicle Services now offers self-service vehicle registration via interactive electronic machines located at eleven sites.

International Registration Program. This program for interstate truck fee apportionment is administered by Vehicle Services.

FIELD OPERATIONS

Field Operations first organized in 1969 when the Division of Field Services was created to decentralize public services within the Motor Vehicle Administration through a series of branch offices. That became Field Operations, then Regional Operations in 1997, Office of Operations in 2004, Operations in April 2008, and assumed its present name in April 2017.

Field Operations provides oversight of the District and County offices of the Motor Vehicle Administration. It also is responsible for Customer Relations, Customer Service Center, and Vehicle Safety and Compliance.

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER


VEHICLE INSPECTION SERVICES
6601 Bay Meadow Drive, Suite E, Glen Burnie, MD 21060

Vehicle Inspection Services started in 1984 as the Division of Vehicle Emissions to carry out the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (Code Transportation Article, secs. 23-201 through 23-404). In 1999, it was renamed Vehicle Emissions Inspection, and later Vehicle Inspection Services. Currently, it also is responsible for school bus vehicle safety programs.

Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program. Ground-level ozone is a major component of smog, polluting the air and Chesapeake Bay. This program checks vehicle emissions for two pollutants that create ground-level ozone: volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. Every two years, the Program tests 1.2 million vehicles for auto emissions in the Baltimore-Washington corridor. The corridor includes fourteen jurisdictions: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery; Prince George's, Queen Anne's and Washington counties, and Baltimore City.

Rules and regulations for emissions inspections are promulgated by both the Department of the Environment, and the Motor Vehicle Administration.

VEHICLE SAFETY & COMPLIANCE
Vehicle Safety and Compliance was created as Vehicle Safety and Customer Information Services and assumed its present name in April 2008.

MVA DISTRICT OFFICES
The Administration's main office and twenty-three district offices offer vehicle registration, driver licensing, driver testing, license review hearings, driver rehabilitation clinics, title and driver record information, and sales of license plates. Four express offices are available to customers who wish quickly to obtain only driver-related services. Some services, such as vehicle registration renewal, are available online.

SUPPORT SERVICES

MARYLAND PORT COMMISSION

The Commission has seven voting members. Six are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. The Secretary of Transportation serves as chair (Code Transportation Article, secs. 6-201 through 6-602). Since 2007, the Secretary of Business and Economic Development (now Commerce) has been a nonvoting member (Chapter 515, Acts of 2007).

World Trade Center Baltimore,401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland, February 2008. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

MARYLAND PORT ADMINISTRATION

In 1956, the Maryland Port Administration began as the Maryland Port Authority (Chapter 2, Acts of Special Session of 1956). The Authority became the Maryland Port Administration in 1971 (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). The Administration was made part of the Department of Transportation in 1971.

Baltimore Seagirt Terminal (aerial view), Baltimore, Maryland, February 2013. Photo courtesy of Maryland Port Administration.

A transportation business unit of the Department, the Maryland Port Administration operates State-owned port facilities and promotes the economic well-being of Maryland's ports. The Adminstration manages the State's investment in port facilities, develops trade by promoting maritime business, and coordinates the delivery of services, such as dredging and navigational aids, to the maritime community.

In Maryland, the Administration seeks to promote and increase waterborne commerce, particularly at the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore. It works to improve and expand Port facilities.

The Administration improves facilities and strengthens the workings of the private operator. If private facilities are inadequate, the Adminstration may construct and, if necessary, operate supplementary public facilities (Code Transportation Article, secs. 6-101 through 6-602). In 1979, operation of the Port of Cambridge was placed under the control of the Administration (Chapter 280, Acts of 1979).

The World Trade Center Baltimore is owned and operated by the Administration.

Work of the Administration is carried out by: Engineering; Finance; Maritime Commercial Management; Marketing; and Operations. The Administration also operates field offices in New York, Pittsburgh, and Chicago, and is represented in Europe, Latin America, and the Far East.

HARBOR DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
The Harbor Development Department ensures that those channels linking the Port of Baltimore to the Atlantic Ocean remain navigable. With the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it coordinates harbor dredging and develops sites to receive dredged material. Further, it evaluates and implements changes in navigational systems, such as range lights, buoys, digital global positioning systems, and water level predicting systems, to keep Port channels safe and open to large ships.

Dredging is necessary to stop sediment from filling in the Port and its channels, and preventing access to the Port. Because disposal of dredged materials is subject to State and federal requirements, the Harbor Development Department develops long-term plans for placing dredged materials in approved containment facilities. Since 2001, material dredged from channels leading into the Chesapeake Bay and considered environmentally safe is deposited at the Poplar Island facility off Tilghman Island on the Eastern Shore. Dredged material from the Port of Baltimore which may be contaminated with heavy metals and chemicals is placed either at the Cox Creek Dredged Material Containment Facility or at the Masonville Dredged Material Placement Site. The Cox Creek Facility is a former industrial site on the Patapsco River, and first received contaminated dredged material in 2005. Located along the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River in Baltimore, the Masonville site began to receive dredged materials in 2010.

PLANNING
Planning is responsible for Capital Planning, Market Planning, and Strategic Planning and Special Projects.

FINANCE
Finance was first the Administration and Business Management Department. In 1993, the Department was renamed Administration. Fiscal responsibilities of this office started as the Finance Department which reorganized in 1993 as Financial Services. It merged in 1996 with Administration to form Administration and Finance, and reformed as Finance in 1999.

For the Maryland Port Administration, Finance directs financial affairs and management information systems, including accounting, budget, information services, and procurement.

MARITIME COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT
Maritime Commercial Management began in 1977 as the World Trade Center - Baltimore. It became World Trade Center Marketing and Leasing in 1995, and reorganized as Property Management in 1999. It assumed its present name in April 2005. This office manages the World Trade Center Baltimore. To other countries, it also markets the Port of Baltimore, Baltimore City, and the State of Maryland through the World Trade Center Association, which has over 200 members in 54 nations.

MARKETING

OPERATIONS

Public marine terminals are located at Seagirt, Dundalk, North Locust Point, South Locust Point, and Fairfield/Masonville.

At South Locust Point, the Cruise Maryland Terminal opened in 2006, with cruise destinations in Bermuda, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Canada, and New England.

AIDAluna cruise ship, Cruise Maryland Terminal, Baltimore, Maryland, October 2019. Photo by Sarah A. Hanks.

MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION

In 1961, the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) formed first as the Metropolitan Transit Authority (Chapter 670, Acts of 1961). As part of the Department of Transportation, the Mass Transit Administration was created in 1971 (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). It was renamed the Maryland Transit Administration in October 2001 (Chapter 730, Acts of 2001).

William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul St., Baltimore, Maryland, July 2003. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The Administration provides transportation to the Baltimore metropolitan area, including Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, and Baltimore County. Commuter bus service also links Howard and Harford Counties to Baltimore City, and southern Maryland to Washington, DC. In addition, the Administration gives technical and financial assistance to develop or improve locally operated transit systems in urban and rural areas throughout the State (Code Transportation Article, secs. 7-101 through 7-1005).

For disabled persons unable to use any fixed-route transit service, the Administration operates Mobility, a specialized door-to-door service.

To streamline services, the Administration introduced CharmCard in September 2010. A rechargeable smart fare card, CharmCard can be used to pay fares on local buses, metro subway, and light rail services operated by the Administration. It also can be used for fares on all systems that accept the Washington Metro's SmarTrip card.

Formerly the work of the Administration had been carried out by three main components: Engineering, Support Services, and Statewide Service Development; Service Oversight, Core Services, and Information Technology; and Transit Development and Delivery. However, in December 2013, the Administration reorganized, with three deputy administrators overseeing Administration; Operations; and Planning, Program, and Engineering. Further reorganization in December 2015 consolidated functions under two deputy administrators, one for Operations, and one for Planning, Program, and Engineering.

Reporting directly to the Maryland Transit Administrator are the Maryland Transit Administration Police, Transit Development and Delivery, and offices for: Administration; Audits; Communications and Marketing; Counsel; Finance; Innovation; and Safety, Quality Assurance, and Risk Management. Two offices report to the Chief of Staff: Governmental Affairs; and Procurement. The Administration is aided by the Maryland Transit Administration Citizens Advisory Committee.

MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Maryland Transit Administration Citizens Advisory Committee began as the Mass Transit Administration Citizens Advisory Committee, and adopted its present name in October 2001.

Appointed by the Secretary of Transportation, members of the Committee serve three-year terms.

ADMINISTRATION
Abolished in December 2015, Administration was revived in April 2017 to oversee offices for fair practices; human resources; labor and employee relations; and operations compliance and investigations.

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
In April 1988, the Office of Public Information began as the Communications Department. It became the Office of Media and Public Relations in 1993, the Office of Transit Communications in 1995, and the Office of Communications in 1998. In 2000, it was renamed Communications, and in December 2005 the Office of Public Information. The communication function moved to the Office of Communications and Marketing in April 2007. The Office was made part of Service Oversight, Core Services, and Information Technology in January 2011. Renamed Office of Communications, Marketing and Media Relations, it was placed directly under the Mass Transit Administrator in January 2013. In July 2015, it reverted to its present name.

The Office is responsible for transit reports, and printing and distributing timetables and schedules. Further, the Office develops and implements advertising and marketing programs to promote the use of public transportation. It designs and produces brochures, flyers, newsletters, signs, displays, vehicle markings, timetables, and logos to inform the public about transportation services. To increase revenue, the Office grants advertising rights on buses, Metro light rail, MARC trains, and station platforms.

FINANCE
In 1986, Finance was established as the Finance Division, which reorganized in 1993 as the Office of Finance. In March 2015, it reformed under Administration as the Office of Finance and Treasury. In December 2015, when Administration was abolished, its finance function was assigned to Finance and Performance Management. In April 2017, Finance and Performance Management was renamed Finance, and Performance Management transferred to Innovation.

Finance oversees the Administration's capital and operating budgets, analysis, management, accounting, and transit insurance. It also is responsible for the Treasury.

TRANSIT DEVELOPMENT & DELIVERY
Under the Maryland Transit Administration, Transit Development and Delivery was created in February 2011.

Transit Development and Delivery provides support for major ongoing transit initiatives, such as the Purple Line. For these projects, it directs engineering, environmental planning, scheduling, cost estimating and controls, and construction management.

PURPLE LINE
As planned, the Purple Line will be a 16.2-mile light-rail transit line, running east-west from Bethesda in Montgomery County to New Carrollton in Prince George's County. Designed to link the Red, Green and Orange Lines of the Washington Metrorail, it also will connect to MARC, Amtrak, and local buses.

In March 2016, the State entered into a public-private partnership with the consortium Purple Line Transit Partners to design, finance, construct, and operate the Purple Line. Construction was to begin in late 2016, with service to begin in 2022. The project, however, was delayed due to a federal judge's ruling in May 2017 requiring further study.

On August 21, 2017, Maryland's Governor and the U.S. Transportation Secretary signed a full funding grant agreement, followed by a groundbreaking ceremony. Construction began immediately.

MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION POLICE

Within the transit system, the Police ensures a safe and orderly environment.

PLANNING, PROGRAM, & ENGINEERING

OFFICE OF ENGINEERING

ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION
In 1983, Engineering and Construction formed as the Transit Development Division. It was renamed the Office of Engineering in 1993, and the Office of Engineering and Construction in 2004. As Engineering and Construction, it was placed under the Chief Engineer in April 2007.

Engineering and Construction oversees facilities, engineering, system equipment engineering, and construction management.

STATEWIDE NETWORK
Statewide Network was established in December 2013 as Statewide Service Development, and adopted its present name in April 2017. It oversees two offices: Capital Programs, Planning and Baltimore Link, and Locally Operated Transit Systems.

OFFICE OF CAPITAL PROGRAMS, PLANNING, & BALTIMORE LINK
The Office of Capital Programs, Planning, and Baltimore Link was created as the Capital and Statewide Programs Department in 1984, and became the Office of Planning and Programming in 1993. It reorganized as the Office of Planning and Statewide Transit in 2000, and combined with the Office of Transit-Oriented Development and Smart Growth to form the Office of Planning and Transit Development in 2004. It again became the Office of Planning and Programming in April 2007, the Office of Planning in February 2011, and adopted its present name in April 2017.

The Office develops capital projects, including required environmental documents; administers State and federal grants to locally-operated transit services; conducts regional and State planning; and provides technical assistance. Currently, it overses Baltimore Link, an overhaul of the bus network for downtown Baltimore and the greater Baltimore region. This process began in October 2015 and fully launched in June 2017.

TRANSIT OPERATIONS

Transit Operations runs a multi-modal transit system that includes local and commuter buses, light rail, metro subway, MARC train service, and paratransit (mobility operations). Further, it oversees the Operations Control Center; Customer Service; Operations Support; and Operations Training.

Two Deputy Chief Operating Officers oversee units under Transit Operations. Both are aided by the Office of Customer Service.

OFFICE OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
The Office of Customer Service was initiated as Customer Services, became the Office of Customer Information in 2004, the Office of Customer and Community Relations in January 2013, and adopted its present name in 2015.

Bus, subway and train service schedules and other information about public transportation are distributed by the Office. The Office also considers suggestions from customers, responds to complaints from riders, and resolves problems. For all modes of transportation, the Office processes customer refunds. In addition, the Office holds fairs and conferences, and mounts displays to inform citizens about public transportation. At Union Station in Washington, DC, the Office runs a customer service booth during the week.

The Office is responsible for three divisions: Senior Initiatives; Special Projects; and Transit Information Services.

TRANSIT INFORMATION SERVICES
The Transit Information Services answers telephone inquiries about transit schedules and routes. By telephone it also receives complaints and recommendations from mass transit riders and forwards their comments to units for evaluation.

DEPUTY CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Under Transit Operations, the first Deputy Chief Operations Officer oversees the core operations of Bus Maintenance; Bus Transportation; Commuter Bus; Mobility Operations; the Office of Service Development; and Street Supervision.

BUS MAINTENANCE
In August 2003, Bus Maintenance became a unit separate from Bus Operations.

BUS TRANSPORTATION
Across 72 bus routes in Baltimore County, Baltimore City, and Anne Arundel County, a fleet of over 800 buses provides transportation to some 250,000 customers daily along with contracted bus service in Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Talbot counties.

COMMUTER BUS

MOBILITY OPERATIONS
Mobility Operations originally formed as Mobility Services in 1978, and reformed under its present name at a later date.

For persons with disabilities who are unable to use regular public transportation, specialized curb-to-curb transit services, including lift-equipped buses are provided by Mobility Operations. Since passage of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, this service also is known as Paratransit. Paratransit is offered in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, and Baltimore County within three-quarters of a mile of any fixed-route service.

Mobility Operations certifies applicants as eligible for Paratransit; receives calls for services; schedules runs and routes; directly operates some vehicles; and contracts for other vehicle operators. Persons certified eligible for mobility services also may participate in Taxi Access II. This service provides taxi rides for $3 from participating taxicab and sedan companies within the mobility service area.

OFFICE OF SERVICE DEVELOPMENT
The Office of Service Development began as Planning and Scheduling. When oversight of the NEXT System was added to its responsibilities, it became the Office of NEXT System, Planning and Scheduling in 2004.

The NEXT System was an advanced technology software system that used global positioning satellites and wireless technology to provide real-time information about when a bus or train will arrive, and enhanced transit security systems. When the NEXT System, was not fully implemented by the State, the Office returned to its core function of planning and scheduling. In April 2007, it was reorganized as the Office of Service Development. In December 2015, the Office moved from Core Support to Core Operations.

Cromwell Light Rail Station, 7378 Baltimore & Annapolis Blvd., Glen Burnie (Anne Arundel County), Maryland, October 2018. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

MARYLAND RAIL COMMUTER (MARC) TRAIN & COMMUTER BUS OPERATIONS
The Maryland Rail Commuter (MARC) Passenger Service started with the former State Railroad Administration. Service functions transferred to the Mass Transit Administration in 1992 (Chapter 127, Acts of 1992).

The MARC Train now operates three rail lines: the Penn, Camden and Brunswick Lines. It provides commuter service each workday along 203 rail miles between northern Maryland, Baltimore City, West Virginia, and Washington, DC.

MARYLAND RAIL COMMUTERS (MARC) RIDERS ADVISORY COUNCIL
In May 2006, the Maryland Rail Commuters (MARC) Riders Advisory Council was established by the Secretary of Transportation.

LIGHT RAIL OPERATIONS
Inaugurated in 1992, the Central Light Rail Line consists of electric light rail cars that provide transportation between Hunt Valley in Baltimore County and Glen Burnie in Anne Arundel County. Extensions connect the line to Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Penn Station in Baltimore. The system is 29 miles long and includes 33 stops.

METRO OPERATIONS
The Baltimore Metro subway system began operations on November 21, 1983.

With 14 stations, the Baltimore Metro currently covers 15.5 miles from Owings Mills in Baltimore County to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore City.

Cromwell Light Rail Station, 7378 Baltimore & Annapolis Blvd., Glen Burnie (Anne Arundel County), Maryland, October 2018. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

MARYLAND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

The Maryland Transportation Authority governs and sets policy for the State's toll roads, bridges, and tunnels (Code Transportation Article, secs. 4-201 through 4-404). The Authority was created in 1971 by the same legislation which established the Department of Transportation (Chapter 526, Acts of 1970). At that time, authority for the Susquehanna River Bridge (Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge), Potomac River Bridge (Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge), Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway transferred to the Authority from the State Roads Commission. The Authority is not funded by the State, nor is it a unit of the Department.

The role of the Maryland Transportation Authority in the State's integrated transportation system is based on legislation passed in 1937 (Chapter 356, Acts of 1937). To quickly build the bridges and tunnels necessary in a state with extensive water area, the legislature empowered the State Roads Commission to construct, operate, and maintain bridges and tunnels by issuing revenue bonds. No State funds were to be used, the credit of the State was not pledged, and the facilities were to be operated on revenues from tolls.

The Maryland Transportation Authority now owns, operates, and maintains the State's eight toll facilities. These include four toll bridges, the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, the Fort McHenry Tunnel, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway, and the Intercounty Connector. In Prince George's and Montgomery counties, the first segment of the Intercounty Connector (Maryland Route 200), opened to traffic on February 23, 2011. The second segment opened to traffic on November 22, 2011, and the final section was completed November 9, 2014. All toll facilities were constructed with proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds and from toll revenues. They are operated and maintained through tolls charged to users.

Engineering and finance operations of the Authority center at the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore's outer harbor crossing.

The Authority consists of the Secretary of Transportation as chair and eight members appointed for three-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent (Code Transportation Article, secs. 4-101 through 4-407).

In April 2004, the Authority reorganized into three main functions: Business Services; Facility Development; and Operations and Public Safety. In December 2008, the Authority again restructured, with the Executive Secretary overseeing six divisions: Administration; Capital Planning; Engineering and Construction Management; Finance; Procurement and Statutory Compliance; and Strategic Development. The Deputy Executive Secretary was responsible for Operations and Public Safety.

Further reorganization in 2009 transferred the six divisions formerly overseen by the Executive Secretary to the Deputy Executive Secretary, while the Division of Operations and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police began reporting directly to the Executive Secretary. In December 2009, the Deputy Executive Secretary again became responsible for the Division of Operations.

In June 2014, the Executive Secretary and Deputy Executive Secretary were renamed the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director. In January 2018, the position of Deputy Executive Director was abolished.

DIVISION OF OPERATIONS

The Division oversees all bridges, tunnels, and turnpikes under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Transportation Authority, as well as the E-Z Pass System. Oversight involves administrative functions, and services to users. Formerly, bridges, tunnels, and turnpikes each had been administered separately.

Fort McHenry Tunnel East Ventilation Building, Maryland Transportation Authority, 2301 South Clinton St., Baltimore, Maryland, July 2016. Photo by Sarah A. Hanks.

Electronic toll-collection is available at all seven Division toll facilities. Initiated in 1999 as M-TAG, the system allows drivers to purchase toll trips in advance with several options available. A driver receives a small radio frequency transponder to place on the inside of a vehicle's windshield. As the vehicle passes through the toll plaza, trips are recorded and automatically deducted from the customer's account. "Members only" lanes allow a vehichle to pass through the toll plaza without stopping, at a slow posted rate of speed. In January 2003, M-TAG became part of the E-Z Pass system currently used in Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The Division operates through three components: E-Z Pass Operations; Facility Operations; and Support Operations. In January 2018, the Division of Engineering and Construction Management moved under the Division of Operations.

DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
In March 2005, the Division of Engineering and Construction Management formed to provide oversight of Authority projects either planned or under construction. Today, these projects include improvements to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (I-95), and repairs to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge.

In January 2018, the Division moved under the Division of Operations.

FACILITY OPERATIONS


CENTRAL REGION
BALTIMORE HARBOR TUNNEL
1200 Frankfurst Ave., Baltimore, MD 21226

Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and its eighteen-mile thruway opened to traffic on November 30, 1957. Designated Interstate 895, the Tunnel provides a major north-south bypass of Baltimore City.

FORT McHENRY TUNNEL
3990 Leland Ave., Baltimore, MD 21224

Fort McHenry Tunnel is the world's only eight-lane underwater tunnel for vehicular traffic. It is located just south of Fort McHenry between Locust Point and Canton, crossing Baltimore's harbor under the Patapsco River. As part of Interstate 95, the Tunnel links the southern and eastern areas of Baltimore City. The Tunnel opened to traffic on November 24, 1985.

FRANCIS SCOTT KEY BRIDGE
303 Authority Drive, Baltimore, MD 21222

Francis Scott Key Bridge opened to traffic in March 1977 and connects Sollers Point in Baltimore County with Hawkins Point in Baltimore City. It also is the final link in the 52-mile Baltimore Beltway (Interstate 695).

Francis Scott Key Bridge over Patapsco River, Baltimore, Maryland, September 2012. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

NORTHERN REGION
Under the Northern Region are two facilities: Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway.
THOMAS J. HATEM MEMORIAL BRIDGE
6000 Pulaski Highway, Perryville, MD 21903

Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge (formerly the Susquehanna River Toll Bridge) spans the Susquehanna River from a point near Perryville, Cecil County, to a point near Havre de Grace, Harford County. Opened to traffic as part of U.S. 40 on August 28, 1940, the Bridge is 1.4 miles long. In 1986, the Bridge was renamed for Thomas J. Hatem (1925-1985) who represented Harford County in the House of Delegates from 1955 to 1958.

JOHN F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL HIGHWAY
One Turnpike Drive, Perryville, MD 21903

John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (formerly Northeastern Expressway) was constructed with revenue bond proceeds authorized in 1956 (Chapter 1, Acts of the Special Session of 1956). A part of Interstate 95, this toll road opened to traffic on November 14, 1963. Its fifty miles extend from Delaware south to the northern limits of Baltimore City. Administrative offices of the Kennedy Memorial Highway are located at the Perryville Toll Plaza, where tolls for through traffic are collected.

SOUTHERN REGION

WILLIAM PRESTON LANE, JR., MEMORIAL BRIDGE
850 Revell Highway, Annapolis, MD 21401

William Preston Lane, Jr., Memorial Bridge, also known as the Bay Bridge, is one of the longest over-water steel structures in the world. It spans 4.35 miles of the Chesapeake Bay between Sandy Point on the Western Shore to a point near Stevensville on the Eastern Shore. Traffic lanes between the suspension towers are 2,922 and 1/2 feet in length and 198 and 1/2 feet above the Bay. The Bridge rises to a total height of 354 feet. This span, a two-lane bridge, was opened to traffic on July 30, 1952. At the request of the General Assembly, the State Roads Commission renamed the Chesapeake Bay Toll Bridge as the William Preston Lane, Jr., Memorial Bridge in 1967 (Joint Resolution no. 21, Acts of 1967). William Preston Lane, Jr. (1892-1967), served as governor from 1947 to 1951.

In 1968, Bridge and Tunnel Revenue Bonds were issued to construct a parallel bridge across the Chesapeake Bay, along with a crossing of the Patapsco River (Baltimore Outer Harbor) from Hawkins Point to Sparrows Point, and a connection on the Harbor Tunnel Thruway between U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 95 near Elkridge. On June 28, 1973, the parallel Bay Bridge, with three lanes, opened to traffic. Also named the William Preston Lane, Jr., Memorial Bridge, this parallel bridge now is referred to as the westbound span, while the original bridge is the eastbound span.

GOVERNOR HARRY W. NICE MEMORIAL/THOMAS "MAC" MIDDLETON BRIDGE
P.O. Box 8
U.S. Route 301 South, Newburg, MD 20664

Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge across the Potomac River in Charles County was opened to traffic in December 1940. It links U.S. 301 between Maryland and Virginia. Originally called the Potomac River Toll Bridge, the 1.7 mile structure was renamed in 1967 by the State Roads Commission for Harry W. Nice (1877-1941), who served as governor from 1935 to 1939. In October 2018, the Bridge was renamed to also honor Thomas McLain Middleton, who served in the State Senate from 1995 to 2019 (Chapter 20, Acts of 2018).

Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge over Potomac River, view from Virginia, October 2010. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

INTERCOUNTY CONNECTOR
16902 Crabbs Branch Way, Derwood, MD 20855

The Intercounty Connector (Maryland Route 200) is an 18.8-mile, six-lane, controlled-access highway with electronic tolls. North of and running roughly parallel to the Washington Beltway, the Connector is an east-west route. It links Interstate 95 in Laurel with Interstate 370 at Shady Grove. Sixteen of its eighteen miles are in Montgomery County; the remaining two are in Prince George's County.

Tolls are collected electronically and are higher during peak travel times. E-Z Pass is the best method of paying tolls on the Connector, but travelers may also be charged tolls through the Motor Vehicle Administration, a more expensive option due to a service charge for looking up a vehicle's registered owner, and printing and mailing the billing statement.

Along the Connector, the Maryland Transit Administration started express bus service on March 1, 2011. Bus service links Gaithersburg to Fort Meade and Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport.

On February 23, 2011, the first leg of the Connector - 5.65 miles of toll road - opened to traffic. It runs from Interstate 370 east to Maryland Route 97 (Georgia Avenue). The second segment opened November 22, 2011, connecting the first segment to Interstate 95. The final segment links Interstate 95 with Route 1 in Laurel. Its 1.5 miles opened on November 10, 2014.

MARYLAND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY POLICE
4330 Broening Highway, Baltimore, MD 21222

As part of the Maryland Transportation Authority, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police originated as the Toll Facilities Police, established in 1971. The Police received its present name in 1993 (Chapter 626, Acts of 1993).

The Police enforces laws and control traffic at turnpike, toll bridge and tunnel facilities; the Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport; and properties under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Port Administration (Code Transportation Article, secs. 4-208, 4-208.1).

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