What Times Should You Avoid Maryland’s Toll Bridges And Tunnels Over Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving travel kicks off this week, and Maryland officials want drivers to know when to hit the road to avoid the worst traffic jams.

What’s Happening: The Maryland Transportation Authority released its recommended drive times for the state’s major toll roads during the busiest travel week of the year. The agency warns that travelers should expect heavy congestion and plan accordingly.

What’s Important: The Bay Bridge will see the worst delays on Wednesday between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. For I-95, avoid traveling between noon and 10 p.m. on Tuesday and between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. on Wednesday.

Between the Lines: Traffic officials plan to use two-way operations on the Bay Bridge to ease eastbound delays, but weather conditions like wind, fog, or rain could cancel those plans. Part of I-695 in Baltimore remains closed, which could push more drivers onto I-95.

Best Times to Travel: The safest bet for light traffic is to drive early in the morning or late at night. Sunday travelers heading back home should leave before 11 a.m. or wait until after 8 p.m. to avoid Bay Bridge backups. On Thanksgiving Day itself, roads will be clearest before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

Know Before You Go: E-ZPass saves drivers up to 77% compared to video tolling rates. Rental car users should add their vehicle information to their account or check with the rental company about toll charges. The DriveEzMD app helps drivers estimate toll costs and manage accounts.

The Sources: Maryland Transportation Authority.