More than 335,000 vehicles are expected to cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge between Friday, May 22, and Memorial Day Monday, May 25, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority. Motorists are being urged to stay on US 50 on both sides of the bridge to keep local roadways clear for first responders and residents.
AAA projects more than 855,000 Marylanders will travel 50 miles or more this holiday weekend, a slight decrease of 0.67% from last year. Auto travel accounts for nearly 88% of trips, with 751,071 Marylanders expected to drive. Air travel is forecast at 73,121 passengers, while 31,139 will use bus, rail or cruise options.
Higher gas prices are playing a role in travel decisions. Maryland drivers are currently paying an average of $4.46 per gallon, about $1.37 more than at this time last year. Despite the increase, many families are still prioritizing holiday getaways and time together.
The best times to travel across the Bay Bridge are as follows:
Eastbound
- Today – before 10 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Friday, May 22 – before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Saturday, May 23 – before 7 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- Sunday, May 24 – before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Memorial Day Monday, May 25 – before 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 26 – before 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
Westbound
- Today – before 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
- Friday, May 22 – before 8 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
- Saturday, May 23 – before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Sunday, May 24 – before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
- Memorial Day Monday, May 25 – before 9 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 26 – before 6 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan joined AAA, the Maryland Tourism Coalition, law enforcement and traffic safety partners to kick off the unofficial start of summer. He encouraged visitors to enjoy the beach and Boardwalk while practicing safety.
“Ocean City is excited to welcome visitors for the unofficial start of summer this Memorial Day weekend,” Mayor Meehan said. “As we welcome travelers from across the region to enjoy our beach and Boardwalk, we ask everyone to walk smart, drive smart, and bike smart so that together we can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend for everyone.”
Ruth Toomey, Executive Director of the Maryland Tourism Coalition, highlighted the state’s role in America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. “Maryland is the perfect destination for a summer road trip as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary,” she said. “From historic sites and waterfront communities to signature events like Sail250 Maryland in Baltimore, there are unforgettable experiences happening in every corner of the state.”
Law enforcement will increase patrols across the state. Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police, reminded drivers to obey speed limits, stay focused and never drive impaired.
Maryland Transportation Authority Police and other agencies will enforce the “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over when possible for stationary emergency vehicles.
AAA urges drivers to prepare with a summer emergency kit that includes a fully charged cell phone and charger, first-aid kit, basic tool kit, blanket, flashlight with batteries, jumper cables and snacks.
For 24/7 Bay Bridge traffic information, motorists can visit Baybridge.com.
