Traffic Study Reveals Transfer Station Impact at Carpenter Road Intersection

During the St. Mary's County Planning Commission meeting on June 23, 2025, discussions centered on the proposed consolidation of waste management routes, which aims to enhance operational efficiency. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential increase in heavy vehicle traffic, particularly trash trucks, at intersections that are already experiencing congestion.

One key point of discussion involved the traffic study conducted for the proposed facility, which relied on data from 2018. Some commission members expressed skepticism about the adequacy of this study, especially given the area's rapid growth and increased traffic patterns since the COVID-19 pandemic. The study projected traffic based on a conservative growth rate, but some members felt it did not accurately reflect the current situation, particularly regarding the types of vehicles expected to use the facility.

The meeting highlighted the importance of understanding the impact of heavy vehicles on local traffic. While the traffic study indicated that the facility would not significantly increase daily trips, concerns were raised about the nature of the vehicles—specifically, the frequency and size of trash trucks navigating unsignalized intersections. Members noted that the presence of larger vehicles could pose challenges, particularly during peak traffic times.

Additionally, the commission discussed the maximum capacity of the proposed facility, which is set at 600 tons per day. The operators assured that they would not exceed this limit and would manage incoming trucks to prevent congestion. However, the potential for increased traffic from other waste management companies was acknowledged, raising questions about future traffic patterns.

As the meeting concluded, the commission recognized the need for further evaluation of traffic impacts, particularly with new intersections being constructed nearby. The discussions underscored the ongoing balancing act between improving waste management efficiency and ensuring the safety and convenience of local residents navigating increasingly busy roadways. The commission plans to continue addressing these concerns as they move forward with the project.