AGP Executive Report

Fourth of July Travel & Transit: Maryland Transit Administration is urging visitors to skip cars and use public transit for Baltimore’s July 4th celebrations, highlighting CharmPass and the Transit app for real-time info and easier fare payment. Heat Impacts: An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for the Baltimore area, with Amtrak canceling at least 18 trains due to temperature-related conditions and warning of possible reduced speeds and delays through the holiday. Road Closures: Baltimore DOT has published a weekend road-closure plan for July 4 events, with multiple lane shutdowns starting Thursday night and festival closures Friday. Airport Upgrade: BWI Marshall is set to receive $62 million in federal funding for tarmac improvements, including new runway lighting, as part of a nationwide airport infrastructure push tied to America’s 250th. Local Tourism & Culture: The Top of the World observation level in Baltimore will stay open to the public while a new lease is finalized, and the B&O Railroad Museum is marking the 250th with a July 4 “All-American Bash” featuring live music, food, and a rare cab-access moment. Outdoor Fun: The Maryland Cycling Classic is canceled for 2026, with organizers aiming to bring it back in 2027.

Extreme Heat & Holiday Travel: Maryland is under an Extreme Heat Warning through Thursday and Friday, with heat index values pushing near/above 110 at times, plus a few storm chances—so officials are urging hydration and using cooling centers ahead of July Fourth crowds. Beach Safety: With July Fourth beachgoers heading to the water, a new national warning highlights flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus risk in coastal waters, a concern that’s growing as conditions shift. Maryland Events for Visitors: Calvert County is leaning into family-friendly summer tourism with Sharkfest (July 11 at the Calvert Marine Museum) and Insectival (July 18 at Annmarie). Outdoor Travel Planning: A developing “Super El Niño” could mean a more humid, hotter Maryland summer, adding another reason to plan around heat. Local Government Notes: St. Mary’s County lists July 3 and July 4 closures and which parks, museums, and services stay open for holiday travelers. Transit & Lodging Links: Traveloka and Marriott announced a multi-year distribution deal, expanding booking access for Marriott properties across Indonesia and Southeast Asia. America 250 in the Region: Washington’s National Mall is seeing major Fourth of July setup changes tied to the America 250 festivities, including construction and barricades that affect visitor sightlines.

Extreme Heat & Safety: Maryland is opening cooling centers statewide and running “Code Red Extreme Heat Season” as temperatures push near 100° with heat indexes around 105–110 through the Fourth of July weekend. Road-Trip Costs: Maryland’s gas tax rose for the first time in two years, adding to already-high fuel costs as travelers weigh driving vs. staying home. Beach & Park Watch: Assateague Island National Seashore is dealing with lifeguard staffing gaps for the holiday, with the Maryland side less covered than the Virginia side. Travel by Air: The FAA is planning major disruptions for America’s 250th—Washington Reagan National will shut down for hours for rehearsals and July 4 flyovers. New Direct Flights: Breeze Airways launches a nonstop from Salisbury (SBY) to Fort Lauderdale, giving Delmarva travelers a closer alternative to big hub airports. Local Tourism Funding: Harford County awarded $1M to strengthen tourism nonprofits using hotel tax dollars. Sail250 Spotlight: The U.S. Coast Guard’s Lee Currier returns to Baltimore for Sail250, adding a hometown connection to the 250th celebrations.

Beach Safety & Water Checks: Maryland’s Department of the Environment is urging swimmers to use the “Check My Beach” tool before heading out, since bacteria levels can spike after storms and sewage or runoff issues—especially during the July Fourth rush. Tick Season Alert: Southern Maryland health officials are reminding hikers and outdoor lovers that tick season is here, with Lyme disease and alpha-gal allergy concerns still top of mind. Lead Testing Volunteers: Chesapeake Beach is recruiting 20 volunteer homeowners to collect tap-water samples for lead and copper testing in older homes, with kits and pickup scheduled mid-July. Heat Wave Watch: Dangerous heat is building across Delmarva, with heat index values near 100–105 Wednesday and an Extreme Heat Watch Thursday through Saturday. Tourism Leadership Change: Talbot County’s outgoing tourism and economic development director, Talbot’s longtime leader Cassandra Vanhooser, is moving to the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism. Baltimore Travel & Culture: A new cancer building opens on Baltimore’s Sinai campus, designed to bring oncology services together in one patient-focused space. Hotel Industry: Marriott and Coca-Cola announced a global beverage partnership, rolling out Coca-Cola brands across Marriott properties over the coming months. Ocean City Eats: Ocean City is spotlighting Fourth of July seafood favorites, from oyster stew to blue crab spots. Family Travel Disruption: Six Flags America has closed, leaving families looking for alternatives around Maryland.

America 250 Travel Prep (D.C. + Maryland): D.C.’s Great American State Fair on the National Mall is drawing political heat, while officials are also planning for extreme heat and crowds—at the Salute to America fireworks viewing zone, bottled water will be free inside the secure area (with limits on containers). Baltimore Aquarium Leadership: Jennifer Driban is named the National Aquarium’s new president and CEO, starting July 1, as the attraction continues to draw major visitor traffic. Outdoor Escape (Anne Arundel): Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary is highlighted as a top Maryland nature stop for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching, with a visitor center and easy drives from Southern Maryland. Family Fun (Ocean City): The Brightside shares a turtle rescue-to-release story as nine sea turtles head back to the wild after months of rehab. Local Community Events (St. Mary’s + Catonsville): Lexington Park’s Community, Culture & Cuisine festival returns for its third year, and Catonsville’s Fourth of July celebration is gearing up with a parade, fireworks, and a full day of activities.

Baltimore Waterfront & Sail250: Thousands packed Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for Sail250, with international tall ships and Navy Blue Angels aerobatics tied to America’s 250th—plus public ship tours running through the weekend. Fourth of July Travel Planning: MDTA says expect heavy Bay Bridge and US-50 traffic July 1–6, with recommended crossing times and real-time updates at Baybridge.com. Family Summer Safety: Three separate child drownings in Maryland in under a week have water-safety experts urging pool fencing, self-latching gates, and keeping life-saving gear nearby ahead of the holiday. Tourism Leadership: Jennifer Driban was named National Aquarium president and CEO, tasked with guiding the city’s top attraction through a major renovation. Chesapeake Conservation Funding: Annapolis received $6M+ in federal support, including $2M to fight invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay. Ocean City Fishing Calendar: Ocean City is leaning into summer anglers’ energy with major tournaments, including Tunas & Tiaras and the Marlin Club’s Kids Classic. Heat & Weather Watch: A broader heat wave is pushing cooling-center guidance across the region, while Marylanders also remember the 2012 derecho’s long Mid-Atlantic impact.

Federal Funding for Annapolis: U.S. Rep. Sarah Elfreth announced more than $6 million for Annapolis projects, including $2 million to help Maryland DNR fight invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay and $1 million for resilience work at Holly Beach Farm, plus about $800,000 for a new mobile command unit for Annapolis Police. Chesapeake Bay Travel Impact: The invasive catfish push also targets the Bay’s food web—good news for anglers and visitors who come for crabs, oysters, and local waterfront experiences. Road-Trip Timing for July 4: MDTA says expect heavy traffic on the Bay Bridge from July 1–6 and recommends specific “before/after” crossing times to cut delays; check Baybridge.com for live updates. Prince George’s County Detours: Construction is underway on a $6.4 million bridge replacement on Route 382 (Croom Road) over County Line Creek, with a detour in place until about Aug. 22. Heat & Safety: A major heat wave is spreading east, with cooling centers opening and outdoor plans getting canceled or delayed—plan accordingly for summer outings. Local Events & History: Franklin’s LibertyFest Parade marked America’s 250th with a lively, family-friendly route, and Southern Maryland’s Color & Light Society is set for a free art show July 10–11 at The Fenwick Inn in Leonardtown.

Road & Safety Updates: MDOT starts guardrail upgrades and right-lane resurfacing on I-695 outer loop in Pikesville (MD 140 to I-795) with right-side lane closures Sunday night through Tuesday morning—plan extra time. Local Tragedy: Howard County police are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash in Ellicott City after a 2008 Yamaha left Baltimore National Pike near Frederick Road; speed is believed to be a factor. Caribbean Travel: BermudAir expands winter flying from BWI with new weekly nonstop service to Turks and Caicos (starting Dec. 24) plus more Anguilla flights. Baltimore Events & Community: Carnival Cruise Line kicked off America’s 250th in Baltimore with a homeport celebration aboard Carnival Pride, featuring a 40-foot Uncle Sam hat and a military tribute. Heritage Tourism: Southern Maryland National Heritage Area marked a major milestone with “Southern Maryland 250: Liberty and Legacy” at Thomas Stone National Historic Site, unveiling a roadmap to preserve and share local history. Nature & Coastal Change: Tangier Island leaders warn that rising waters and erosion are shrinking the island and pushing residents to leave, calling for more federal support.

BWI Travel Boost: BermudAir is expanding its winter schedule at Baltimore-Washington International with new nonstop service to Turks and Caicos (starting Dec. 24) plus more flights to Anguilla, giving Maryland travelers extra direct Caribbean options. Holiday Travel & Safety: Maryland State Parks are rolling out Fourth of July events statewide for America’s 250th, including license-free fishing on July 4 and reservation-required park access to prevent traffic backups. Weather Watch: A dangerous heat wave is expected to push heat index values up to 115 across much of the U.S., including the mid-Atlantic and Baltimore area—plan outdoor time carefully. Local Road Disruption: A crash on I-495 Inner Loop in Montgomery County shut down three lanes, causing heavy congestion. Shoreline Fun Despite Rain: Dewey Beach’s Starboard Running of the Bull drew over 1,000 attendees even with downpours; the run was canceled for the first time, but the bull-and-matador showdown and live music still went on. Gas Prices: GasBuddy reports Maryland gasoline averages $3.53 per gallon, down 3.4 cents week-over-week. History Trail for Travelers: A Maryland historian is retracing the Underground Railroad route for America’s 250th, walking from Sandy Spring to Toronto with stops through Delaware, New Jersey, and New York.

Maryland July 4 plans: State parks are rolling out America’s 250th birthday festivities statewide, including bike parades, tree plantings, reenactments, and kids’ crafts, plus a license-free fishing day on July 4 (reservations required at several popular parks via parkdayuse.maryland.gov). Local travel logistics: Gas prices in Maryland keep easing, with GasBuddy reporting an average of $3.53/gal (down 3.4 cents in a week). Family-friendly Maryland dining buzz: “Top Chef” alum Anthony Jones is spotlighting Maryland crabs and local culinary roots as he racks up regional honors. Chesapeake-area history tourism: A historian is retracing the Underground Railroad for America’s 250th, including a “Freedom Walk” route starting in Sandy Spring, Maryland and traveling toward Toronto. Road safety watch: Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal Prince George’s County crash on Route 301. Travel caution: A new report flags bedbug risk—Maryland ranks third riskiest among states.

Fatal crash update (Prince George’s): Maryland State Police are investigating a two-car crash on northbound Route 301 at Village Drive around 4 a.m.; Brenda Godbolt, 61, of Upper Marlboro died at the scene, while Ronald Spangler Jr., 30, of Glen Burnie was taken to the hospital but declined treatment on scene. Summer travel health alert (bedbugs): A new national risk ranking puts Maryland among the higher bedbug hot spots, warning travelers to be extra cautious in lodging. Outdoor & water quality (Chesapeake restoration): Gov. Wes Moore announced $31.5 million in DNR grants for 25 ecological restoration projects, including work in the Gunpowder watershed to improve habitats and water quality. Local tourism/celebrations (America 250): Coverage highlights America 250 events and community pride, including a Frederick Douglass reading tradition tied to July 4. Maryland outdoors for anglers: DNR fishing conditions note warming Bay waters and changing oxygen levels, with guidance for where to fish this week. Travel planning (gas prices): AAA reports gas prices continue to fall ahead of the holiday rush. Family fun (baseball camp): Blue Hen Youth Baseball Camp returned to Lewes Little League for its fifth year, drawing more than 50 kids during vacation week.

Maryland Travel & Tourism Watch: Ocean City and Rehoboth Beach are bracing for possible “takeover” crowds this Fourth of July, with Ocean City planning extra law enforcement and urging visitors to stick to official events. Local History for Visitors: Charles County’s Friendship Farm Park was added to the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom, spotlighting the Underground Railroad and Scipio Gantt’s escape—plus it’s a 382-acre park with hiking trails. Road-Trip Reality Check: Expect overnight lane closures for Prince George’s County bridge deck and joint repairs on the I-95/I-495 Capital Beltway over Amtrak tracks, with drivers advised to plan extra time. Summer Outdoors: Calvert’s American Chestnut Land Trust is launching the Parkers Creek Heritage Trail with 22 interpretive signs for National Trails Day. On the Water: The Maryland Fishing Report for June 27 notes warming Bay waters and changing bottom oxygen, plus guidance to use underwater structure and baitfish for best spots. Family Fun & Community: Chestertown’s Saturday in the Park returns with music, art, kayaking, and local vendors at Wilmer Park.

July 4 & America 250 Plans: Maryland State Parks are rolling out Independence Day events for the nation’s 250th, including a Liberty Tree planting at Janes Island State Park (July 1), plus reservation-required day use at several popular parks to prevent traffic backups. Waterfront Weekend Fun: Chestertown’s fifth annual Saturday in the Park brought live music, kayaking, art activities, and local food to the Chester River waterfront. Art on the Bay: MASSONIART in Chestertown is hosting “Tidewrack,” a major exhibition by Marc Castelli running through July 12, with Chesapeake Bay themes and gallery hours set through the week. St. Michaels Fireworks Night: The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Big Band Night returns July 5 with live music, family activities, and fireworks over the Miles River. Travel Safety Tip: Tick bites are rising in the Southeast in 2026; experts point to warmer winter conditions and recommend repellent, light clothing, and daily body checks. Local Tourism Support: Talbot County small businesses and nonprofits hit by April frost/freeze can apply for low-interest SBA disaster loans. Getting There: Breeze Airways is adding service from BWI, including nonstop flights to Vermont and Florida starting in October.

Air Travel & Tourism: Breeze Airways is expanding in the Mid-Atlantic with new service tied to Baltimore—adding nonstop Burlington–Baltimore flights starting Oct. 4, plus Burlington–Vero Beach with a BreezeThru option (no plane change) also starting Oct. 4. Historic Maryland: The Casselman River Bridge in Garrett County is under restoration, with Maryland DNR overseeing the state park and the Maryland State Highway Administration managing federal Transportation Alternatives Program funding—built in 1813–1815 as part of the National Road. Sail & Waterfront Events: Sail 250 Maryland and Airshow Baltimore brought tall ships into Baltimore Harbor, with international vessels and visiting sailors highlighting maritime heritage and tourism draw. Local Culture: A Baltimore Latino youth camp is running an eight-week bilingual summer program in Highlandtown to help kids connect with Latino traditions through arts and crafts. Outdoor/Family Travel: Maryland’s Great American State Fair coverage highlights Independence Day–weekend plans and what visitors can expect at the National Mall. Wildlife Mystery: Chesapeake ospreys are facing a puzzling disappearance and starvation situation, raising new questions about what it will take to protect them.

Baltimore & Culture: Nuestras Raíces, Inc. is running a free, bilingual eight-week Latino youth camp in Highlandtown, using arts and community lessons to help kids celebrate heritage and learn that differences don’t mean bullying. Maryland Travel & Summer Plans: AAA expects more than 1.5 million Marylanders to hit the road for the Fourth of July and urges drivers to do quick car checks (tires, batteries) and consider leaving earlier or using public transit. Dog-Friendly Getaways: Southern Maryland families looking for summer fun with pets can try dog beaches around the region, including Quiet Waters in Annapolis (off-leash, dog-only water access). Beach Parks Reopen: Anne Arundel County’s Mayo Beach Day Camp and Mayo Beach Park facilities are back open after a $2.9M revitalization, expanding access for kids of all abilities. Local Nature & Hidden Coast: Eastern Shore beach lovers get two new “go off the beaten path” picks: Cove Road Park in Bivalve and Roaring Point Park in Nanticoke. Big Event Logistics: Sail250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore runs June 24–July 1, with multiple Baltimore road closures and transit changes to plan around. Holiday Weather Watch: Scattered storms are possible Friday into Saturday around Baltimore, with Sunday looking drier for outdoor plans.

New nonstop flights from BWI: Breeze Airways is adding two routes from Baltimore/Washington International—nonstop service to Burlington, Vermont (starting Oct. 4) and Vero Beach, Florida (starting Oct. 1). Flights run three days a week (Sun/Tue/Thu), with the airport calling it a boost for tourism and jobs. Maryland education gift: College of Southern Maryland renamed its Learning Resource Center to honor Lorraine Diana ’79 and Robert Guite, expanding scholarships and support for nursing, engineering, and robotics students. Sail 250 tourism push: Baltimore’s Tall Ships event SAIL 250 is expected to drive tourism and spending, with international visitors welcomed as part of the lineup. Chesapeake Bay heritage visit: The Living Classrooms skipjack Sigsbee made its first Reedville stop, offering free deck tours and hands-on history tied to War of 1812-era oystering. Weekend plans for travelers: A roundup highlights things to do across the region, including World Cup match viewing in Philly and major concerts and festivals. Travel safety watch: Weather is turning more humid with storms possible Friday and Saturday, so plan outdoor time accordingly.