Speed Limit Increases on Interstate 70 in Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD – Drivers can go a bit faster on Interstate 70 as of Monday.

A new law was approved in 2015 in which the State Highway Administration had the authority to raise the speed limit from 65 to 70 mph. Gov. Larry Hogan signed the measure into law after a study by the Maryland Department of Transportation found that the increase in speed would not impact safety.

The first state road where the speed limit increased was I-68.

Now, more than 75 miles along I-70 will have a higher speed limit as well.

As of April 4, the speed limit is 70 mph in these areas, according to the State Highway Administration:

• US 29 in Howard County to MD 144 in Frederick County (31 miles)
• MD 180 in Frederick County to the Washington County/Pennsylvania line (45 miles)

Although the speed limit is changing in some areas, it will remain 65 mph in these, highway officials say:

• I-70 at I-695 to US 29 in Howard County
• MD 144 to MD 180 in Frederick County

“By letting drivers go a little bit faster on I-70 SHA expects to see more consistent travel speeds for vehicles, keeping I-70 conditions safe for the thousands who travel the route each day," State Highway Administrator Gregory C. Johnson, P.E. said. "On every highway, drivers should pay close attention to the roadway and obey speed limits. Law enforcement partners monitor traffic to enforce regulations and speed limits to keep travelers safe."

Photo Credit: State Highway Administration.

Related: New Laws Take Effect on Oct. 1