Traffic expert: study found MD‑216 corridors can absorb projected peak‑hour trips; opponents press for updated counts and access design

Traffic expert Micky Cornelius (Traffic Group) told the examiner the petitioners’ generalized traffic analysis evaluated peak‑hour counts, background growth, access and circulation and intersections along Maryland 216 and Johns Hopkins Road. He said the study—prepared to PDP standards dated Jan. 26, 2026—did not identify transportation deficiencies that would preclude approval and concluded "the surrounding road system can adequately support future projected traffic demand."

Cornelius explained parking surveys using drone photos from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. across multiple days showed large areas of underutilized asphalt in the business district, supporting redevelopment of some parking for apartments. He reported the combined buildout would add about "276 additional trips during the morning peak hour and 323 additional trips in the evening peak hour." Public questioners and civic groups asked for updated or broader counts (including Sunday or weekend peaks and events) and pressed the state highway and county to weigh in on proposed roundabout geometry and access alignment.