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The Maryland Bikeways Program supports projects that maximize bicycle access and fill missing links in the state’s bicycle system to make bicycle travel a safe and comfortable travel option. The Program builds connections to work, school, shopping and transit using local roads and shared-use paths. The Maryland Bikeways Program supports Governor O’Malley’s Cycle Maryland initiative to promote biking as a fun, healthy transportation alternative that is great for our environment.

The Maryland Bikeways Program:
  • Makes needed connections: This program will help complete those missing links identified in the MDOT Trails Plan.
     
  • Supports Maryland's bikesharing efforts: successful bike sharing depends on a safe, connected network of roads and trails to connect local destinations. The Maryland Bikeways Program will help build the infrastructure needed to ensure success of bike sharing in Maryland.
     
  • Leverages our past investments: Bikeways projects will connect to Maryland’s existing bicycle facilities, helping to maximize their use.
     
  • Complements existing state, local and federal programs: The Maryland Bikeways Program is just one of many programs available to support bicycle facilities. The program is designed to address key funding gaps for bicycle projects.


How does the Bikeways Program help Maryland?
 
The Maryland Bikeways program presents a unique opportunity to support Maryland's economy, environment and quality of life. The Bikeways Program will help to:

  • Stimulate the economy: recent studies have shown that bicycle infrastructure creates jobs and stimulates local economies. For more information, see the The Great Allegheny Passage Economic Impact Study and a Baltimore Case Study, Estimating the Employment Impacts of Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Road Infrastructure.
     
  • Achieve cost-savings for households and government agencies: Transportation is the second largest household expense. Bicycling is an affordable alternative that can reduce household spending on transportation.
     
  • Promote the health and well-being of Maryland residents: Increasing physical activity can reduce health risks.
     
  • Protect the environment: Increasing bicycle travel will help meet Maryland’s goals for reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Application Information
 
Project sponsors seeking Maryland Bikeways Program funding must submit a completed application by May 4, 2012.Completed applications may be submitted electronically via email to MDBikeways@mdot.maryland.gov, or in hard copy to:

ATTN: Kate Sylvester

Maryland Department of Transportation
Office of Planning and Capital Programming
7201 Corporate Center Drive
Hanover, Maryland 21076
 

Download the Application (PDF)

Download the Evaluation Guide (PDF)

 
Two web-based interactive maps were created to assist in completing and reviewing Bikeways applications. Detailed instructions for using the maps are included in the application. As noted in the application, applicants are not required to use these maps. The maps are intended to reduce burden on the applicant to provide some of the requested information.
 

Bikeways Eligible and Priority Areas Map

Bikeways Destinations Map

 

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Bikeways Project Awards

Approximately 20 projects were selected for an initial round of Bikeways Program grants. The grant winning projects include:  on and off-road bicycle route connections, bike route signage, bike racks and safety improvements.  Many are small-scale projects that will be implemented very quickly to improve Maryland’s cycling environment.

The largest award of $1 million was announced by Governor O’Malley in November for the missing trail link connecting Maryland’s Anacostia Tributary Trail to Washington, D.C.’s Riverwalk Trail.  The current plan is to break ground in 2012 on this final missing link that, when complete, will offer nearly 60 miles of contiguous trails along the Anacostia River Tributary System, including 39 miles in Maryland and 20 miles of completed and planned trails in the District of Columbia.

“These grants are a great way to help local jurisdictions make key connections to build a more comprehensive bike network that will benefit our citizens,” said Governor O’Malley.  “By getting out and taking a bike ride, we can learn to enjoy more of Maryland’s natural treasures, help reduce the impact on the land, improve our fitness and well-being, and enhance our quality of life.”


2012 Bikeways Project Location Map
-2012 Bikeways Project List

 

2012 Bikeways Project Awards

Approximately 20 projects were selected for an initial round of Bikeways Program grants. The grant winning projects include:  on and off-road bicycle route connections, bike route signage, bike racks and safety improvements.  Many are small-scale projects that will be implemented very quickly to improve Maryland’s cycling environment.

The largest award of $1 million was announced by Governor O’Malley in November for the missing trail link connecting Maryland’s Anacostia Tributary Trail to Washington, D.C.’s Riverwalk Trail.  The current plan is to break ground in 2012 on this final missing link that, when complete, will offer nearly 60 miles of contiguous trails along the Anacostia River Tributary System, including 39 miles in Maryland and 20 miles of completed and planned trails in the District of Columbia.

“These grants are a great way to help local jurisdictions make key connections to build a more comprehensive bike network that will benefit our citizens,” said Governor O’Malley.  “By getting out and taking a bike ride, we can learn to enjoy more of Maryland’s natural treasures, help reduce the impact on the land, improve our fitness and well-being, and enhance our quality of life.”


2012 Bikeways Project Location Map
-2012 Bikeways Project List


Where Do I Find More Information on the Bikeways Program?

Click here to view the Bikeways FAQ's
 
For more information, please contact the MDOT Office of Planning and Capital Programming by email at MDBikeways@mdot.maryland.gov  or phone at 410-865-1277.