Traffic study reveals waste facility plans in Saint Mary's County

St. Mary's County is moving forward with plans for a new waste management facility, which is expected to significantly impact local traffic patterns. During the Planning Commission meeting on June 23, 2025, discussions centered around the anticipated traffic generated by the Evergreen disposal development, with estimates suggesting around 130 vehicle trips per day from private homeowners and facility employees.

The traffic analysis presented indicated that while the area has seen a 10% increase in traffic over the past few years, the projections for the facility were designed to account for potential growth and ensure adequate roadway access. Traffic engineers emphasized that the estimates were conservative, aiming to prepare for the maximum expected vehicle volume to avoid future congestion issues.

Concerns were raised regarding the accuracy of the traffic study, particularly in light of changes in commuting patterns post-COVID-19. Some commission members questioned whether the data, which was collected during the pandemic, accurately reflected current traffic conditions. The traffic engineer acknowledged these concerns but maintained that the projections were based on historical data trends and were designed to be cautious.

Additionally, the facility is not currently planned to accept waste from private homeowners directly, focusing instead on larger commercial vehicles to maintain safety and efficiency. However, there is a provision for the facility to serve as a staging area for debris in emergency situations, such as severe weather events, should the county require it.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the facility developers and county officials, with both parties expressing a commitment to addressing community concerns and ensuring that the facility operates smoothly within the existing infrastructure. As the project progresses, further assessments will be conducted to monitor traffic impacts and adjust plans as necessary.