Annapolis, MD—A new report from Maryland PIRG and Frontier Group blasted Larry Hogan’s $9 billion Lexus Lanes, calling the plan a “boondoggle” and one of the most wasteful transportation projects in the nation. The report raises many questions about the financial viability of Hogan’s Lexus Lanes and warns that Maryland taxpayers will be on the hook if tolls are not able to cover the costs of Hogan’s Lexus Lanes.
“The only people who will benefit from Hogan’s Lexus Lanes are his Big Construction donors who will continue receiving millions in state contracts,” said Maryland Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Matthews. “Larry Hogan abandoned years of effort and billions of dollars in federal funding when he cancelled the Red Line in Baltimore, and he turned the Purple Line into the Lavender Line in the DC suburbs. Instead of relieving traffic, Hogan’s Lexus Lanes will just lead to more congestion, unaffordable tolls for commuters, and a potentially massive financial liability for taxpayers.”
Hogan’s Lexus Lanes Plan—to add toll lanes to I-270 and I-495—is already mired in scandal due to Transportation Secretary Pete Rahn’s unethical procurement practices and will force working class families to pay as much as $41 for a one-way trip from Frederick to Shady Grove.