The MDOT has also revealed a draft 2026–2031 $21.5 billion capital plan that includes a $1.4 billion light-rail upgrade project and general investments to enhance safety, the state’s infrastructure reliability, and the state economy.

Maryland DOT unveils $21.5B capital plan with major upgrades
Photo: Maryland DOT

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

MDOT capital plan highlights modernization projects

The proposed Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) presents a balanced plan to keep existing systems in good condition while positioning the region for future growth. Additionally, it assigns the highest priority to upgrades to support safety and regional economic competitiveness.

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One notable aspect is the $1.4 billion Maryland Transit Administration plan to replace old light-rail trains and overhaul stations, systems, and maintenance shops. It will be the first major commitment to the system in three decades.

MDOT seeks public input before approval

MDOT officials said the CTP will be put through a three-month period of public scrutiny starting in September. Therefore, the populace and other stakeholders will be able to shape the plan’s final copy before presenting the plan to the Maryland Legislature in January 2026.

Meanwhile, the officials reiterated that the modernization plan puts the state in good position for future federal grants for extra transit capacity. The approval would be last following legislative deliberations early in the coming year.

What is MDOT?

The Maryland Department of Transportation (Maryland DOT) serves as the state agency that manages the planning, construction, and maintenance of the state’s transportation infrastructure. It controls highways, mass transit systems, aviation systems, ports, and railroad service for safe and efficient mobility.

What does the Maryland DOT draft capital plan include?

The proposed capital plan by the Maryland DOT includes investments amounting to $21.5 billion and entails a state-of-the-art light-rail project costing $1.4 billion, safety upgrades, system maintenance, and economic development infrastructure.

When will the Maryland DOT finish the plan?

The draft plan will be released for public review from September through November. It will be finalized and forwarded to the Maryland Legislature for approval in January 2026.

Why does the light-rail modernization project matter?

The $1.4-billion renovation project is the state’s first major overhaul to the 30-year-old light-rail system. It will be safer, decrease congestion and travel times, and be capacity-enhancing while putting the state on the path for future federal transit grants.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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