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Bill

HB 1504

Highways - Sidewalks and Bicycle Pathways - Construction and Reconstruction (The Honorable Anne Healey Pedestrian Safety Act of 2026)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 19 co-sponsors

Maryland bill mandates sidewalks and bike paths be built whenever highways are constructed or reconstructed, integrating active transportation into all road projects.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 418
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Bill Summary · HB 1504

Legislative bill overview

HB 1504 requires that sidewalks and bicycle pathways be constructed or reconstructed whenever highway construction or reconstruction projects occur in Maryland. The bill establishes a mandate to integrate pedestrian and cycling infrastructure into road improvement projects as a standard practice rather than an optional addition.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects how Maryland invests transportation dollars and shapes urban/suburban development patterns. It could significantly expand pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure statewide, potentially improving public health, reducing vehicle dependency, and affecting traffic safety—but also increasing project costs and timelines for highway work.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Mandatory sidewalk/pathway construction during every highway project will increase project expenses, potentially straining transportation budgets or delaying other road improvements
  • Geographic applicability: Rural highways may face disproportionate burdens if the requirement applies uniformly; some areas may lack demand or existing pedestrian/cycling populations to justify the expense
  • Project timeline and complexity: Adding mandatory construction phases could extend project schedules and create coordination challenges with existing utilities and property considerations
  • Funding source unclear: The bill text does not specify whether funding comes from existing highway budgets or requires new appropriations, creating uncertainty for implementation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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