$1.65M Grant To Improve Accessibility Of Patuxent Branch Trail In Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A $1.65 million grant has been awarded to Howard County to upgrade the surface of a 1.3-mile dirt and gravel section of the popular Patuxent Branch Trail in Savage and Kings Contrivance that will improve accessibility for all. The grant, awarded through Maryland's transportation alternatives program, is funded with federal dollars.

“Howard County has a wonderful and growing network of pathways and trails that promote walking and biking, reduce the environmental impact of gas-powered vehicles and allow all our residents to appreciate the natural beauty around us,” Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said. “The Patuxent Branch Trail is a treasure and this upgrade will improve access for all.”

Construction work to improve the 1.3-mile section of the trail between Old Guilford Road and Vollmerhausen Road should begin in 2024. Design and engineering are already in progress, incorporating community input and minimizing environmental impacts.

This section of the Patuxent Branch Trail provides an important connection between Lake Elkhorn and Savage, including a crossing underneath Interstate 95. The existing dirt and gravel surface suffers from erosion, mud puddles and ruts after rainfall.