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Poll Shows Maryland Voters Back More Investments in Public Transit, Walking, and Biking Infrastructure

A Majority of Maryland Voters Favor Increased Investment in Sustainable Transportation

A new statewide poll commissioned by the Maryland chapter of the Sierra Club reveals broad support for increased investments in public transit, biking, and pedestrian infrastructure. According to the survey, a significant portion of Maryland’s electorate, including a surprising number of Republican voters, favor better access to transit options and safer walking and biking facilities. This growing consensus is paving the way for the upcoming Transportation and Climate Alignment Act of 2025, which will be discussed in the state Senate this week.

The poll’s findings come at a time when lawmakers are gearing up to address key issues related to climate change and sustainable transportation. The bill, which would significantly boost investments in public transit, biking, and walking infrastructure, has already garnered notable support from a diverse group of Maryland voters.

Broad Support Across Political Lines

The survey results show that a vast majority of Maryland voters see the need for better public transit and safer travel options. When asked whether improving access to these transportation options could reduce time spent in traffic or save money, 68.2% of respondents agreed. That number included 82.8% of Democrats, 40.2% of Republicans, and 67.9% of independent voters, indicating a cross-party consensus on the importance of investing in these sustainable modes of transportation.

Such results are particularly noteworthy considering the partisan nature of political debates in Maryland. Despite strong differences on a range of issues, Maryland residents seem to be united in their desire for improved infrastructure that prioritizes environmental sustainability and offers practical alternatives to car-dependent commuting.

Maryland transit walking biking

Key Insights from the Poll:

  • 68.2% of voters agree that better transit and safer biking and walking options could reduce traffic time and lower transportation costs.
  • 82.8% of Democrats support these measures, alongside 40.2% of Republicans.
  • 67.9% of independent voters also favor investments in sustainable infrastructure.

This kind of overwhelming support across party lines is a rare sight in Maryland, where transportation policy often triggers intense debates. Voters seem to agree that addressing climate change and reducing dependence on cars is a critical issue that transcends political affiliation.

The Transportation and Climate Alignment Act of 2025

The poll results come just as Maryland lawmakers are preparing for the first hearing of the Transportation and Climate Alignment Act of 2025, scheduled for this Wednesday in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. The bill, which has already made progress in the House, is a major step toward reshaping the state’s transportation landscape to better align with its climate goals.

Sponsored by Senators Shelly Hettleman (D-Baltimore County) and Dawn Gile (D-Anne Arundel) in the Senate, and Delegate Mark Edelson (D-Baltimore City) in the House, the bill proposes a comprehensive approach to transportation policy. It requires the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) to evaluate the greenhouse gas emissions of all major projects in the state’s transportation budget. This evaluation will ensure that the projects align with Maryland’s climate goals of reducing pollution.

In addition, the legislation calls for increased funding for public transit, biking, and pedestrian infrastructure. Notably, it mandates that MDOT offset carbon emissions from major highway expansion projects, particularly those over $100 million, by providing clean transportation alternatives to the affected residents. This will help reduce the overall environmental impact of infrastructure projects while improving transportation options for Maryland’s residents.

This legislation reflects the values of the state’s voters, as identified in the Sierra Club’s poll. By addressing both the environmental and practical aspects of transportation, the bill offers a forward-thinking solution that aligns with public opinion and addresses the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure.

Legislation in Motion

  • The Transportation and Climate Alignment Act will require MDOT to assess greenhouse gas emissions for major projects.
  • The bill will increase funding for public transit, biking, and pedestrian infrastructure.
  • Carbon offset requirements for highway expansion projects are included for projects over $100 million.

Despite previous setbacks, including the bill’s failure to pass in the Senate last year, supporters are optimistic about its prospects this session. A similar bill passed the House with a commanding 101-37 vote but faltered in the Senate during the final hours of the legislative session. Advocates for the bill are hopeful that the polling results, which indicate strong public backing, will give the legislation the momentum it needs to pass this year.

Rural and Urban Voters Agree on Transportation Needs

One of the more surprising findings from the poll is the support for these initiatives in rural areas. While urban voters have historically been the primary advocates for expanded public transit and safer biking options, the Sierra Club poll shows that rural voters also recognize the need for better transportation infrastructure. In fact, a sizable percentage of rural voters expressed support for the same initiatives, highlighting that this issue is not just a city-centric concern but one that resonates with Maryland’s entire population.

The Sierra Club’s report also pointed out that the push for more investment in transit and biking infrastructure is not just an environmental issue. It is about making life more convenient and affordable for Marylanders. As one respondent put it, “The money I could save on gas and the time I could spend with my family, instead of sitting in traffic, would be huge.” For many, improving transit options is as much about economic practicality as it is about environmental sustainability.

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