Eldridge will be seeing a new sidewalk construction project starting on or about June 24th, aiming to enhance pedestrian connectivity and multimodal transportation in the Elkridge community. The Howard County is focused on creating safer pathways for its residents, dedicating a significant budget to infrastructure improvements.
According to the County of Howard, the sidewalk will run along the south side of Montgomery Road from Steepridge Drive to the Lawyers Hill apartment complex, it's a part of the county's broader Pedestrian Master Plan, WalkHoward, which also includes the installation of a storm drain and restriping the road to accommodate an eastbound bike lane, bridging halves of Elkridge for easier access to essential services and schools.
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball highlighted the project's importance, stating, "Sidewalks create neighborhood connections and provide residents safe and healthy transportation options. To help us expand multimodal transportation in Howard County, including in our Elkridge community, my Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget includes $14.7 million in County funding for sidewalks, bike lanes, pathways and other Complete Streets infrastructure that makes projects like this possible." Such initiatives are critical to fostering accessible and safe communities.
Commuters in the Elkridge area should expect some disruptions, as flagging operations will direct traffic and the east-bound travel lane may be closed intermittently during construction hours, which are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m; the goal is to have the sidewalks ready for use by late August if the weather remains cooperative, and signs will be posted to alert residents about the construction and potential lane closures.
With work zone safety being a top priority for the County – and a shared responsibility with its commuters – the Public Works department urges drivers to stay vigilant, abide by reduced speed limits, and give space to one another in these areas.
Editor's Note: A previous version of this article misstated a connection to Ellicott City.
