The Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of people and goods throughout the city. From managing traffic flow during major events to implementing new permitting systems and promoting sustainable transportation options, BCDOT is constantly working to improve the transportation experience in Baltimore. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent announcements and important updates from the Baltimore Department Of Transportation, ensuring residents and visitors are well-informed about key initiatives and potential disruptions.
Navigating Downtown Baltimore During the CIAA Basketball Tournament
The annual CIAA Basketball Tournament brings significant excitement and activity to downtown Baltimore. However, this also means increased traffic congestion. The Baltimore Department of Transportation issued an advisory for motorists to prepare for heavy traffic conditions in the downtown area from Tuesday, February 25th through Saturday, March 1, 2025, due to tournament games at the CFG Bank Arena.
To mitigate traffic congestion and ensure public safety, the Baltimore Department of Transportation implemented temporary lane closures near the CFG Bank Arena during evening hours from Tuesday, February 25th to Friday, February 28th, between 7:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. These closures included:
- Left lane of Howard Street from Camden to Pratt Streets
- Right lane of Lombard Street from Hopkins Place to Howard Street
- Left lane of Baltimore Street from Howard Street to Park Avenue
- Left lane of Pratt Street from Eutaw to Howard Streets
On Saturday, March 1st, during the championship games, these lane closures were in effect from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Baltimore Department of Transportation strongly encouraged attendees to utilize the city’s free Charm City Circulator. The Orange route provides direct access to the CFG Bank Arena, with buses running every ten minutes until 8pm on tournament days. Furthermore, recognizing the extended evening events, the Charm City Circulator extended service hours on Wednesday, February 26th and Thursday, February 27th. The Orange, Purple, and Cherry routes ran until midnight on these days, providing convenient and free transportation options.
For those choosing to drive, the Baltimore Department of Transportation recommended parking in area garages near the CFG Bank Arena. Rideshare users were directed to a designated pick-up/drop-off location on the south side of Baltimore Street at 2 Hopkins Plaza to ensure smooth traffic flow and passenger safety.
Streamlining Permitting with the New OpenGov System
The Baltimore City Department of Transportation is committed to modernizing its services and enhancing user experience. A significant step in this direction was the launch of the new OpenGov Permitting System for Special Events and Temporary Right of Way Permits on February 18, 2025. This updated process aims to create a more efficient and user-friendly permitting experience for event organizers and contractors.
The OpenGov system offers several key improvements, including:
- Single Public Portal Interface: Users can access all permitting services through one centralized online portal.
- Complete Online Application: The entire application process, including document submission, can be completed online, eliminating paper-based submissions.
- Real-time Progress Tracking: Applicants can monitor the status of their permits and track required approvals through the portal.
- Direct Communication: The system facilitates direct communication with the Baltimore Department of Transportation’s Special Events and Right of Way Permitting Teams within the portal.
- Online Payments: Secure online payment options are integrated into the system for permit fees.
To ensure a smooth transition to the new system, the Baltimore Department of Transportation hosted a free hybrid demo and information session on Thursday, February 13, 2025. This session provided a comprehensive overview of the system’s features and guided users through the application process. The Baltimore Department of Transportation encouraged all permit applicants to attend and familiarize themselves with these beneficial changes.
Addressing Mis-parked Scooters and E-bikes through 311
Dockless scooters and e-bikes have become a popular mode of transportation in Baltimore City, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the city. With over 1.4 million trips taken in 2024 alone, these micromobility options are clearly embraced by residents and visitors. However, improper parking of these vehicles can create obstructions and safety hazards for pedestrians and individuals with mobility devices.
To address this issue, the Baltimore Department of Transportation, in collaboration with Mayor Brandon M. Scott, announced a new initiative allowing residents to report mis-parked rentable scooters and e-bikes directly through the City’s 311 system. Once a report is made to Lime or Spin via 311, these companies are required to resolve the parking issue within 24 hours.
The Baltimore Department of Transportation has provided clear guidelines on what constitutes mis-parked scooters and e-bikes. Reports can be made under the “Parking, Signals and Signs” category in 311, specifically selecting “Scooter and E-Bike Parking.” Conditions that warrant a report include vehicles:
- Blocking: Building entrances, residential entrances/exits, bus stops, or sidewalks/paths with less than 3 feet of accessible space.
- Parked: On ramps or between two ramps, or on private property.
The 311 service request encourages users to utilize the GPS pin feature or accurately enter the address to help companies quickly locate the mis-parked vehicle. Furthermore, both Spin and Lime incentivize responsible parking by offering discounts to users who park in designated corrals listed within their respective apps. For damaged scooters or e-bikes, residents are still advised to report directly through the company’s app for removal. The Baltimore Department of Transportation provides additional information about the micromobility program on its website.
Resumption of Daily Vehicle Storage Fees for Impounded Vehicles
The Baltimore City Department of Transportation announced the resumption of daily storage fees for vehicles impounded at its Pulaski Highway and Fallsway Facilities, effective Monday, July 22, 2024. This decision aligns with the reinstatement of late fees on parking penalties announced in June 2024, marking a return to standard fee structures following pandemic-related pauses.
Vehicles remaining impounded for over 48 hours at these facilities are subject to daily storage fees. The fee structure is as follows:
- $15 per day: For 2-axel vehicles with 4 wheels (including cars and standard trucks).
- $30 per day: For larger vehicles such as dually trucks (six wheels) or vehicles with 3 or more axels.
These daily storage fees apply to all days, including weekends and holidays. The Baltimore Department of Transportation encouraged vehicle owners to retrieve their impounded vehicles before July 22, 2024, to avoid incurring these charges. To release a vehicle, owners must provide proof of ownership, have it verified by BCDOT staff, and settle all towing and storage fees, along with any associated citations. It is important to note that towing and storage fees are waived for stolen vehicles with proper documentation.
For further information or to schedule an appointment at the Pulaski Highway facility, motorists are advised to call 410-396-9958 or visit the Baltimore City Towing Vehicle Recovery Unit website.
Expanding Charm City Circulator Service to Cherry Hill
In a significant move to enhance transportation equity and connectivity, the Baltimore Department of Transportation, in partnership with Mayor Brandon M. Scott, launched expanded Charm City Circulator (CCC) service on June 23, 2024. This expansion included a new route serving the Cherry Hill neighborhood and modifications to the Purple Route.
The highly anticipated Cherry Route directly connects Cherry Hill to the Inner Harbor, serving key destinations such as Federal Hill, Riverside, McHenry Row, Baltimore Peninsula, Middle Branch Park, MedStar Harbor Hospital, and the Cherry Hill Light Rail Station. Buses on the Cherry Route operate at a 20-minute frequency, providing reliable and fare-free transportation to these areas.
In conjunction with the Cherry Route launch, the Purple Route was adjusted to optimize service. The Purple Route no longer travels south of Montgomery Street, as Federal Hill is now served by the Cherry Route. Instead, the Purple Route was extended north along 33rd Street to Greenmount Avenue, adding service to MedStar Union Memorial Hospital and Giant Food. The Purple Route operates at a more frequent 13-minute interval.
These service improvements are a direct outcome of the Transit Development Plan (TDP), a comprehensive study conducted throughout 2021 and 2022 to guide the future of the Charm City Circulator and enhance service equity. The Baltimore Department of Transportation continues to work with stakeholders to implement further improvements outlined in the Transit Development Plan. A service map reflecting these changes is available for public viewing.
Road Closures and Truck Route Adjustments Following the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
Following the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation has been actively engaged with local, state, and federal partners to manage the transportation impacts. The bridge collapse has necessitated immediate road closures and adjustments to truck routes to maintain traffic flow and safety.
In anticipation of increased traffic volumes on city roads, particularly along designated truck routes, the Baltimore Department of Transportation modified the official truck map. Truck drivers are urged to consult the updated GIS map for the most current route information. Portions of Fort Armistead Road and Hawkins Point Road were also closed.
To assist motorists with navigating detours, the Baltimore Department of Transportation recommended using the Waze app for real-time navigation updates. Mayor Brandon M. Scott declared a local State of Emergency in response to the Key Bridge collapse, enabling the city to mobilize emergency resources and respond effectively to the evolving situation.
The Baltimore Department of Transportation continues to monitor the situation closely and implement necessary adjustments to ensure the safety and efficient movement of traffic during this challenging time. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official Baltimore City Department of Transportation channels for the latest updates and advisories.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Department of Transportation remains dedicated to providing reliable, safe, and efficient transportation services for Baltimore City. Through proactive initiatives, infrastructure management, and responsive communication, BCDOT plays a vital role in keeping Baltimore moving forward. By staying informed about these updates and utilizing the resources provided by the Baltimore Department of Transportation, residents and visitors can navigate the city effectively and contribute to a smoother transportation experience for everyone.
