Baltimore takes a step toward smoother drives with its newest initiative, "Operation Orange Cone," which aims to address the city's infamous potholes and deteriorating streets. According to a report by WMAR2 News, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) plans to resurface 110 miles of roads this year—a significant upgrade from last year's roadwork. Residents who have long dealt with the rough rides are hopeful for the changes. "They raggedy, if you are a person with a bad back, you really notice it," Cheryl Lou Smith stated, capturing the common sentiment among many locals.
The welcomed improvements come thanks to an uptick in state funding. "The increased HUR funding ensures that Baltimore can invest in long-term infrastructure improvements, reduce costly repairs, and provide safe and efficient roadways throughout the city," said Veronica McBeth, BCDOT's executive director, in a statement detailed by WMAR2 News. The financial boost is something Baltimore's weary commuters are likely to appreciate, especially those like Carlton Williams, who told WMAR2 News that pothole damage to his vehicle cost almost $2,000—a story that isn't uncommon among his peers.
However, the road to better roads is met with a mix of skepticism and optimism. Meanwhile, the BCDOT assures that traffic will be maintained as much as possible, and that paving work also includes upgrades to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as detailed by WBAL-TV. The city plans to keep the public informed by posting signs a few days in advance of the roadwork on each segment. A map of scheduled repavings is also available online for residents to track progress.
