Delays Possible Around Baltimore Due to Porter Trial

As the trial of Officer William Porter comes to a close, the Maryland Transit Administration advised travelers Tuesday that it was monitoring any potential impacts.

Bus riders should anticipate delays, according to the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA).

The MTA stated that it has not issued any official advisories as of Tuesday afternoon but has deployed officers to bus, metro and light rail facilities throughout the Baltimore area and is anticipating heavy traffic near Baltimore City Circuit Court and City Hall.

Jurors continued deliberating Tuesday afternoon, when WJZ reported they were deadlocked and Judge Barry Williams advised them to continue working toward a verdict.

• Could One Officer Have Prevented Freddie Gray’s Death?
• Gray Family to Receive $6.4M in Wrongful Death Settlement
• April Riots in Baltimore: Looting, Fires, State of Emergency

Full Statement Issued Dec. 15: MTA Prepared For Possible Transit Diversions

“MTA is closely monitoring the Officer Porter trial and travel conditions downtown and will adjust services as necessary due to the potential for heavy pedestrian and/or vehicular traffic. MTA is coordinating closely with Baltimore City officials, including city school personnel and local law enforcement, to ensure the safety of passengers and employees, and to minimize service disruptions.

“MTA Police have developed a comprehensive plan to protect riders and transit property, and have strategically deployed officers to key Local Bus, Metro Subway and Light Rail transit facilities throughout the Baltimore area. The heaviest traffic is expected around Baltimore City Circuit Court and City Hall, and may impact Local Bus service throughout downtown.

“No diversions are currently planned, though Local Bus riders should expect delays.

“Baltimore City officials have notified MTA Operations that temporary traffic stops and lane/road closures may occur downtown. The MTA thanks riders for their patience and regrets any inconvenience this may cause. For the latest information on MTA service, passengers are urged to check the MTA website. Customers also can call MTA’s Transit Information Contact Center Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 410-539-5000 or 410-539-3497 (TTY). Please visit MTA’s Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @mtamaryland. MTA reminds passengers to report unattended bags and unusual behavior to police or transit personnel. If you see something, say something. Visit www.securetransit.orgfor more information.”