Hoyer Meets with DC and Washington Nationals Officials to Discuss New Ballpark’s Impact on Maryland Commuters

Continues to Work with Stakeholders on Traffic Mitigation Strategies

February 06, 2008 -- WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday afternoon, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) held a meeting with a broad group of stake holders to discuss transportation issues related to the opening of the new Washington Nationals stadium. During the meeting, Hoyer raised his long-held concerns about the stadium’s potential impact on commuters who drive along the South Capitol Street Corridor and said he hoped to continue working with officials on strategies to mitigate increased traffic congestion on game days.

“Commuters in this region already contend with some of the worst traffic conditions in the nation,” stated Rep. Hoyer. “I want to ensure that the opening of the new ballpark does not compound traffic congestion, particularly for the tens of thousands of Maryland commuters for whom the South Capitol Street Corridor serves as the primary gateway into the Nation’s Capital.”

During the meeting, Rep. Hoyer heard from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, and Washington Nationals officials about transportation management plans and strategies for minimizing impacts to residents and commuters, including plans to provide additional roadway and transit access capacity, segregate ballpark traffic and parking from local access, and maximize usage of public transportation.

“With weekday evening games that begin at the tail end of peak commuter periods, it is critical that we explore all available options to streamline the flow of traffic and minimize congestion,” stated Rep. Hoyer. “As opening day approaches, I intend to continue working with officials to mitigate the impact on motorists in our region.”

A long-time advocate for redeveloping the South Capitol Street Corridor into a grand urban boulevard, Rep. Hoyer initially raised concerns about locating the Nationals new stadium in its current location, in particular with regard to the impact on commuter traffic. Over the past few years, Rep. Hoyer has consistently fought to ensure that new stadium’s impact on these citizens is considered and minimized.

Source: Congressman Steny H. Hoyer

Bookmark/Search this post with:

 •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •