February 2026 Draft EIS Public Hearings

In February, the MDTA and FHWA hosted public hearings for the Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study: Tier 2 NEPA (Tier 2 Study) process, providing the public an opportunity to review the project, submit comments, and offer testimony.

Enter the Virtual Information Room

The virtual and in-person hearings focused on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the MDTA’s Recommended Preferred Alternative – Alternative C, announced in December. The hearings allowed interested parties to review the alternatives and environmental impacts evaluated in the Draft EIS, learn more about the Recommended Preferred Alternative, and offer testimony.

Following review of public and agency comments, MDTA will continue its analysis, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is expected to issue a combined Final EIS and Record of Decision in Fall 2026. The Draft EIS may be viewed online or in person at the viewing locations listed below. Individuals unable to access the Draft EIS may call 1-667-203-5408 for assistance.

Live Testimony Sessions Begin February 9, 2026

Each public hearing will included a brief presentation followed by live testimony.

In-person public hearings featured an open house format beginning at 5 p.m., allowing attendees time to view project displays and materials. Live testimony sessions began at 6 p.m. All hearing materials are available below.

Virtual Public Hearing

Mon., February 9, 2026
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Enter the Virtual Meeting

Anne Arundel County Public Hearing

Tues., February 10, 2026
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
(Testimony began at 6:00 p.m.)

Broadneck High School
1265 Green Holly Drive
Annapolis, MD 21409

Queen Anne’s County Public Hearing

Thurs., February 12, 2026
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
(Testimony began at 6:00 p.m.)

Kent Island High School
900 Love Point Road
Stevensville, MD 21666

MDTA is accepting comments on the Draft EIS and MDTA’s Recommended Preferred Alternative through March 9, 2026. Comments may be submitted online or via mail, email, public or private testimony at the public hearings, or by phone at 1-667-203-5408. All comments received will be given equal consideration and will be addressed in the Final EIS and Record of Decision.

In coordination with FHWA, MDTA is following the federally mandated NEPA process at the Bay Bridge and its approaches. NEPA review is required for all major federal actions, including those involving federal funding or approvals.

Individuals who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or who require translation services at no cost should contact MDTA at 410-537-1000 (711 for MD Relay) no later than five (5) business days prior to the hearing they wish to attend.

The Maryland Transportation Authority finances, owns, operates, secures and improves the state’s eight toll facilities. The MDTA is financed by toll revenue without relying on state tax dollars.

Virtual Information Room

Comment on the Draft EIS