August 25, 2023
Ready Report: “Fiscal Discipline”, Road Projects, Lanternflies & More…
I hope you and your family are enjoying what’s left of our summer. We actually got some rain this week but definitely need more. See latest news updates below:
Ready on the Radio
Earlier this week, I joined Torrey Snow WBAL to talk about Governor Moore’s call for a “season of fiscal discipline” for Maryland state government. Maryland Senate Republicans and I are all for REAL fiscal discipline – but that involves cutting back on spending and reducing government NOT raising taxes. I stand ready to take the slings and arrows that come with making tough decisions about where to restrain spending – I hope that is what the Governor means by “season of discipline” but we’ll see. Watch/listen to the interview by clicking here.
Three Carroll Roadwork Projects – Traffic Alerts:
- Maryland Route 75 (Green Valley Road):
Beginning this Monday, August 28th, the Maryland State Highway Administration will begin a project to improve nearly five miles of pavement on MD 75 (Green Valley Road) in New Windsor. Crews will work between the Frederick/Carroll County line and MD 31 (New Windsor Road). The project should be complete by mid-October, weather permitting. More information about this project can be found by clicking here.
- Eastbound MD Route 140 (College View Blvd) to MD 97 (Littlestown Pike):
Additionally, The State Highway Administration will begin a project to repair a concrete Interchange ramp at eastbound MD 140 (College View Boulevard) to MD 97 (Littlestown Pike) in Westminster on Friday, August 25. Crews will close and work on the ramp for two weekends, August 25-28, and September 8-11 (due to the Labor Day Holiday), weather permitting. More information about this project can be found by clicking here.
- Traffic Alert – MD 140 at MD 91 Intersection Improvement (Finksburg):
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration has announced an open-house regarding a project to improve the MD 140 and MD 91 intersection – the busiest intersection in Carroll County on a day-to-day basis. The purpose of the project is to improve traffic organization, and provide easier access when traveling from westbound MD 140 to southbound MD 91. The new configuration will direct motorists to use Michele Brauning Drive to connect to southbound MD 91. The project design also includes new bicycle lanes along MD 140. The project is scheduled to start late 2024.
The State Highway Administration will hold the public open house on Thursday, September 14, 2023, from 6-8pm at Carroll County Public Library – Finksburg Branch. This meeting will provide attendees to view the design details. State Highway Administration representatives will be available to listen to feedback and answer project-related questions. Additional information regarding this project can be found by clicking here.
More on Spotted Lanternflies:
A couple weeks ago, I wrote to you about spotted lanternflies, an invasive insect that residents are being asked to kill when seen. However, it was pointed out to me that I didn’t give any details on how to kill them. Of course, smashing individual ones works but for ones who are on plants, crops or other items that you don’t want to squash, many people have been making their own bug spray, which includes water and vinegar, or water and dish soap, which kills them on contact. Even small steps to lowering the population is helpful to keep them from becoming an even bigger problem for agriculture.
Maryland Department of Agriculture also has detailed information, including how to identify the insect in multiple stages, on its website.
Report Spotted Lanternfly Sightings:
Call (410) 841-5920, or email: [email protected] Or fill out form at: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/26f9dbec58674313b1bec03ddb8b5f0e
Direct Link to Survey on Carroll County Broadband Access
Carroll County Government is asking residents and businesses to complete a Carroll County Residential Broadband Survey to collect data regarding residents’ access to broadband internet.
The short, five minute survey (click here for direct link) is designed to identify locations that do not have access to broadband internet or have limited or problematic access as well as those areas where connectivity is strong. The information will identify areas where broadband infrastructure does not exist or places that do not meet the minimum speed suggested by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for appropriate service.
Those with limited or no internet access can complete the survey by calling 410-386-2309 or emailing [email protected] to receive a paper copy by mail.
Haven Shoemaker Law & Order Update (Fundraiser) – September 23rd
Join State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker and Sheriff Jim DeWees for an afternoon of delicious BBQ and great conversation with an update on law enforcement in Carroll County. 2:00-4:00 PM at Hampstead Panther Park on Saturday, September 23rd. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
Save The Date – October 4th – Senator Ready Fall Fundraiser @ Island Green
Please save the date for our annual Fall Family Fundraiser at Island Green just outside Westminster. It will be held this year on Wednesday evening, October 4th. Click here for the ticket link for the event – more details coming soon!
Return To News >