Construction work to improve the 1.3-mile section of the trail between Old Guilford Road and Vollmerhausen Road is expected to begin in 2024. Design and engineering are already in progress, incorporating community input and minimizing environmental impacts.
This section of the Patuxent Branch Trail provides an important connection between Lake Elkhorn and Savage, including a crossing underneath Interstate 95. The existing dirt and gravel surface suffers from erosion, mud puddles and ruts after rainfall.
Since taking office in 2018, County Executive Ball has overseen the creation or improvement of more than 30 miles of pathways, bike lanes and sidewalks throughout the county, to improve safety and promote biking and walking.
Accessibility upgrades also have been a priority. Howard County has completed renovations and improvements at a variety of parks and locations, including at Centennial Park, Haviland Mill Park and Blandair Park, as well as an accessible playground in Savage Park among other improvements.