Maryland Considers Expanding Beltway, But Could Seize 34 Homes Through Eminent Domain to Do It By Cory Smith
“Opposition is growing after an initial study into the possibility of expanding Interstate 270 and the Beltway in Maryland suggested adding toll lanes through eminent domain.
That study suggests that the state of Maryland seize up to 34 homes in Silver Spring through eminent domain, the legal process by which the state government could take private property and redevelop it for a public purpose.
Maryland is evaluating seven plans to reduce traffic on Interstate 495 and I-270, and nearly all suggest adding toll lanes. The state says all plans would reduce the amount of time that commuters spend in traffic by at least 20%, with some options cutting traffic time by nearly 35%.
But residents near the Beltway say the suggestion is unfair. And some point out that following this suggestion would require Gov. Larry Hogan break a promise he made not to use eminent domain.”
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Smith, Cory. Washington 4 News12 April 2019.