U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $11,072,956 in federal funding for Maryland to continue construction of the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS) including the last remaining section of "Corridor N" that runs through Western Maryland. Funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included a $1.25 billion investment over five years towards the completion of the ADHS.
The ADHS is comprised of 3,090 miles of highway, with 33 corridors that provide access to regional and national markets. Based on the March 2021 Cost-to-Complete report by Appalachian Regional Commission, the return on investment of completing the ADHS by 2045 is estimated to be $3.70 for every dollar spent.
"Rural communities in Western Maryland deserve a reliable road network," the lawmakers said. "That's why we fought for this historic federal investment to finally deliver interstate connectivity for Western Marylanders, as well as reduce travel times, create jobs and foster economic development in Maryland and throughout the region. We were proud to help pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to provide our state and region the tools to complete the highway system and strengthen the Appalachian economy."