Frederick traffic plan includes US 15 widening and smart signal enhancements

The Frederick Planning Commission convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure developments and traffic management strategies in the city. The meeting focused on the ongoing evaluation of the Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO) as it relates to proposed changes in land use and density within the master plan.

The discussion began with an emphasis on the importance of the APFO analysis, which ensures that any modifications to project intensity or density are thoroughly assessed. If any proposed changes exceed established thresholds, projects must undergo a retesting process to evaluate their impact on traffic and public facilities.

Cherian, a key presenter, provided insights into the current state of traffic intersections, revealing that out of 18 evaluated intersections, seven failed to meet adequacy standards. The commission discussed the need for future improvements, including potential road widening and the implementation of smart traffic management systems. Questions were raised regarding the timeline for these enhancements, particularly concerning the US 15 widening project, which is fully funded and moving into the construction phase.

The conversation also touched on the strategic improvements planned for Monocacy Boulevard, aimed at increasing capacity where necessary. The commission acknowledged the limitations of expanding road capacity and emphasized the need to enhance non-automotive transportation options, such as bikeways and improved transit services.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed extension of Warman's Mill Road and the access break on Route 26 near Walmart. The commission noted that progress on these projects has been slow, largely due to state-level decisions regarding right-of-way access. The city is advocating for these connections as part of its comprehensive plan, but the timeline remains uncertain.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing traffic challenges while balancing development needs. The commission plans to continue monitoring these projects and their impacts on the community, with a focus on improving connectivity and transportation safety.