Thousands of people are expected to cross the Bay Bridge this Memorial Day weekend to enjoy Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
AAA estimates peak travel times will be Thursday and Friday afternoons as people get off work. This will result in extra patrols from local and state police departments, including the Transportation Authority, which responds to crashes on the Bay Bridge.
AAA also expects airports to be especially busy. Despite travel numbers still being down from pre-pandemic levels, Marylanders traveling by air are on the rise.
In time for summer, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise lines will return to the Port of Baltimore, about two months after the collapse of the Key Bridge.
The state is also cracking down on impaired driving and boating with stricter penalties. This includes requiring ignition interlocks for those on probation for drunk driving and increasing maximum penalties for operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol.
Ocean City will kick off its summer with the planting of the first beach umbrella, a ceremony that also remembers those who served the country.
In Annapolis, the Naval Academy is hosting its graduation ceremony, adding to the busy weekend in Maryland.