AGP Executive Report

Maryland Politics & Travel Timing: Maryland voters faced a slow, rainy primary day, with turnout described as a trickle at many polling sites—an election that will shape who leads the state and represents it in Congress. Governor’s Race: NBC projected Wes Moore as the winner of the Democratic primary for Maryland governor, setting up a general election matchup with Republican Dan Cox. Congressional Spotlight (6th District): Rep. April McClain Delaney claimed victory over David Trone in Maryland’s costly 6th District Democratic primary, a race fueled by massive personal spending. Tourism & Coastal Concerns: Northampton County officials are weighing a federal proposal that could allow seabed mining offshore, raising worries about impacts to barrier islands, beaches, birds, and marine life. Baltimore Travel & Events: Sail250 is expected to drive tourism and spending in Baltimore, with authorities warning of drone-flight restrictions and traffic disruptions around major Maryland events. Local Hospitality: Chesapeake Beach boosted its holiday lights budget, a small but tangible win for seasonal visitor appeal.

Maryland Travel & Tourism Watch: Road & beach updates: Maryland DOT SHA is moving ahead with a drainage culvert replacement on MD 336 (Lakesville Rd) over Worlds End Creek in Dorchester County, with a detour starting July 6 for about 3–4 weeks, and crews are also installing a new traffic signal on MD 650 at Merrimac Drive in Prince George’s County with lane shifts starting June 24. Coastal rules: A state advisory committee reviewed Maryland’s coastal building line, with most public feedback supporting dune protection regulations. Ocean City safety & events: Ocean City police say a “takeover-style” social media event investigation led to multiple arrests, including a drug distribution charge. Getting there easier: Zurich Airport will let passengers keep liquids and electronics in carry-ons starting June 26 as CT scanners roll out. Local culture: Chesapeake Beach updated its holiday lights budget, adding about $35.6k for a new full tree. Travel crime at airports: A Maryland man was arrested at Dulles after officers allegedly found child sexual exploitation and bestiality material on his phone.

Maryland Travel & Tourism: The Southern Maryland National Heritage Area unveiled its master plan at Thomas Stone National Historic Site, aiming to grow heritage tourism, strengthen local economies, and conserve key landscapes and historic sites over the next decade—plus a new Maryland Liberty Tree dedication. Roads & Getting Around: Anne Arundel County and MDOT SHA will hold a public open house on the I-97 Safety and Mobility Project to ease one of the state’s worst summer bottlenecks by adding a lane each direction and upgrading key bridges. Lodging Update: The Hilton Garden Inn Annapolis completed a full renovation, refreshing its lobby, rooms, meeting space, and 24/7 “The Shop.” Outdoor Planning: Maryland anglers get a weekly striped bass and freshwater fishing outlook from the state, with summer heat making catch-and-release guidance especially important. Summer Safety: Delaware State Police report a fatal e-bike crash on Coastal Highway near Dewey Beach involving a Maryland rider and a pickup truck. Events & Fun: O.A.R. announced its “Three Decades Tour,” with a stop at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD on July 24.

Sail250 Baltimore: The weeklong tall ships and airshow stop (June 25–30) is set to bring major waterfront crowds and traffic headaches, with city DOT road closures and parking restrictions plus extra congestion from the Orioles’ weekend series. Transit Upgrade: WMATA has hired Indra Group to supply up to 450 customer terminals across nearly 100 D.C. Metro stations, aiming to modernize ticketing and payments. Road Work Alerts: Expect weekday delays on the MD 231 bridge deck repairs over the Patuxent River (Calvert/Charles line) and overnight detours at the I-70/I-81 interchange in Washington County for overhead sign replacement. Ocean City Landmark: The Trail of Whispering Giants’ statue at the Ocean City Inlet is celebrating its 50th anniversary, honoring Assateague/Nanticoke heritage. Safety Watch: A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Southern Maryland until 9 p.m., with damaging wind, lightning, heavy rain, and hail possible. Fatal Crash (Region): Delaware State Police identified a Potomac, Md. woman who died in a Rehoboth Beach e-bike crash. Summer Meals: Maryland’s Summer Food Service Program is running statewide with free meals at hundreds of sites for kids and teens during school break.

Trail Planning: MDOT/State Highway Administration will hold a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) on the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail in Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties, proposing a ~9.5-mile hard-surface bike/ped path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley—an Eastern Shore tourism and recreation link that also connects near Douglass history. Beach Safety: Ocean City police are hunting for a suspect after illegal fireworks sparked a dune fire that burned protected beach grass; officials say dune grass helps prevent erosion and storm damage. Road Trip Health Watch: A confirmed measles case in a Maryland resident has prompted warnings across DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with exposure sites including Dulles International Airport and Mary’s Center in Adams Morgan—health officials urge monitoring and calling ahead if symptoms show. Travel Disruption/Flights: Frontier Airlines faces backlash after a pregnant passenger claims she was removed from an oversold flight because her fare was “too low,” raising questions about airline oversales rules after boarding. Family Travel Moments: Ocean City families marked Father’s Day with beach, boardwalk, and boating traditions, while a separate Ocean City memorial paddle-out honored longtime beach patrol veteran Ward Kovacs. Local Air Travel: A small plane crash in eastern Maryland killed three Israelis traveling to Montgomery County; the NTSB is investigating.

Eastern Shore Trail Planning: MDOT/SHA will hold a public meeting June 21 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to update planning for a ~9.5-mile Frederick Douglass Rail Trail along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley—aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. DMV Health Alert: Health officials issued a measles warning across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia after a confirmed case involving travel through Dulles Airport and Mary’s Center in Adams Morgan. Coastal Safety (E-bike crashes): Delaware State Police report a 66-year-old Maryland woman died after an e-bike crash on Coastal Highway near Savages Ditch Road; police say she left the bike lane and was struck by a pickup. Ocean City Beach Watch: Ocean City firefighters responded to a dune brush fire on 118th Street, blamed on personal fireworks, and extinguished it before it spread. Local Travel Vibes: Ocean City families marked Father’s Day with beach time, boardwalk stops, and boating traditions, while Norfolk’s 50th Harborfest wrapped with tall ships and maritime memories. Presidential Travel/Local Tourism: The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation in D.C. is facing rapid deterioration, with Trump saying it may be drained for repairs—an unusual development for visitors.

Eastern Shore Trail Planning: Maryland DOT will hold a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to update planning for the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail—about a 9.5-mile hard-surface bike and pedestrian path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley, aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. Summer Travel Health Watch: Maryland health officials confirmed a measles case in a resident who traveled through Dulles Airport (June 17, 6–11 a.m.) and visited Mary’s Center Adams Morgan urgent care (4–8:30 p.m.), urging anyone with possible exposure to monitor symptoms and check vaccination status. Local Fundraising on the Bay: CalvertHealth Foundation announced “Soirée by the Bay” Aug. 13 at the renovated Rod ’N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach, with waterfront dining, live music, and proceeds supporting local health programs. Outdoor & Water Safety: Maryland Natural Resources Police released spring enforcement results, including citations tied to illegal gillnetting for striped bass on the Patapsco River and other public-lands violations, plus search-and-rescue activity for hikers and boaters. Big Travel-Season Context: AAA reports the national gas price average dipped below $4 as the July 4 travel rush approaches.

Eastern Shore Trail Plans: Maryland DOT says it will hold a public meeting April 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to share planning for the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail—about a 9.5-mile hard-surface bike and pedestrian path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley, aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. Coastal Conservation Fundraiser: Maryland Coastal Bays launched its 30th anniversary “30 for 30” fundraising campaign, with donations supporting habitat restoration, monitoring, and education around the five Coastal Bays behind Ocean City and Assateague Island, culminating in a gala at Assateague State Park. Travel Health Alert: Maryland health officials reported a measles case tied to Dulles International Airport and a clinic in D.C.’s Adams Morgan area on June 17; officials urge travelers and visitors to check vaccination status and watch for symptoms. Air Travel Disruption Story: A pregnant Maryland traveler says Frontier removed her after boarding, alleging her ticket price was “too low” for an overbooking situation—an issue that could affect how families plan and buffer travel days. Big Summer Events Guide: A working list of July 4 fireworks and parades across the Baltimore area highlights Inner Harbor, Middle Branch Park, and other 250th birthday-themed celebrations. Global Travel Context: US-Iran talks in Switzerland are in focus as Iran says it closed the Strait of Hormuz again, while the US warns of a 60-day deadline—an update that can ripple into travel planning and costs.

Eastern Shore Trail Planning: MDOT will hold a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to share plans for the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail—about a 9.5-mile hard-surface bike and pedestrian path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley, aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. Summer Travel & Local Events: Hagerstown’s Mid-Atlantic Criterium Bicycle Races bring downtown road closures Saturday (6 a.m.–5 p.m.) with detours and limited emergency access around the loop on S. Potomac, W. Baltimore, Summit Ave and W. Washington. Family Travel Caution: An American woman from Maryland, Kalin Rytina, suffered a stroke while traveling home from a horseback riding trip in Guatemala and is hospitalized in Panama City—highlighting how quickly vacation plans can turn into costly medical emergencies. Air Travel Watch: American Airlines issued a July 4 travel alert tied to America250, including change-fee waivers for flights at BWI and other major airports. On the Horizon for Maryland Travelers: Maryland’s measles situation remains a concern as CDC counts show cases across many jurisdictions, including Maryland.

Juneteenth in Annapolis: The city kicked off its third annual Juneteenth weekend with a concert at historic Carr’s Beach, a once-segregated spot now welcoming everyone through music, arts, food vendors, and fellowship. Preakness future in Maryland: Gov. Wes Moore says Maryland will secure intellectual property rights for the Preakness Stakes and Black-Eyed Susan, aiming to keep the “crown jewel” in-state for generations and protect Pimlico and surrounding communities. Ocean City area travel alerts: Road closures are set for Sail 250 Maryland and Airshow Baltimore (June 24–July 1), plus additional downtown Baltimore closures tied to Orioles games—plan routes early. Berlin firefighters parade: A long-running Maryland State Firefighters Association tradition is moving to downtown Berlin on Saturday on Main Street, making it easier for families and volunteer crews to attend. Eastern Shore trail planning: MDOT will hold a public meeting (June 20, 5–7 p.m.) on a planned 9.5-mile Frederick Douglass Rail Trail along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley. Ocean City sea turtle release: Nine rehabilitated sea turtles, named for Baltimore neighborhoods, were released from a 40th Street beach access in Ocean City. Road detour for MD 225: Hawthorne Road (MD 225) is closed near the bridge in Charles County with a months-long detour via Bryans Road—expect delays and support local businesses.

Maryland Tourism & Trails: MDOT/SHA will hold a public meeting June 20 (5-7 p.m.) in Queen Anne’s County to update planning for the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail, a ~9.5-mile hard-surface bike and pedestrian path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley—aimed at boosting recreation and tourism on the Eastern Shore. Juneteenth Weekend in Maryland: Looking for local plans? Baltimore’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Benjamin Banneker Historical Park (Catonsville), Woodlawn Memorial Park, and multiple county events plus an Annapolis concert and Juneteenth Parade (June 20) are on the calendar. Road-Trip Reality Check: Nighttime detours hit the I-81/I-70 interchange in Washington County the week of June 22 as crews replace overhead signs (10 p.m.-5 a.m. nightly); through traffic stays open, but ramp access will be rerouted. Waterfront Upgrade: The Maryland Board of Public Works approved about $29.7 million for Somers Cove Marina improvements in Crisfield, including bulkheads, piers, storm drains, utilities, and a boat ramp—supporting tourism and local boating access. Health Alert for Travelers: A measles case involving a passenger who passed through LAX has health officials urging travelers to confirm immunity, especially with World Cup crowds increasing exposure risk.

Eastern Shore Trail Plan: MDOT will host a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to update planning for a ~9.5-mile Frederick Douglass Rail Trail along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley—aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. Marina Upgrades in Crisfield: The Maryland Board of Public Works approved about $29.7 million for Somers Cove Marina improvements, including bulkheads, piers, storm drains, utilities and a boat ramp, to protect operations and support tourism tied to Smith Island events. Preakness Stakes Rights: Maryland will match an $85 million offer to acquire rights to the Preakness and Black-Eyed Susan brands, keeping the state in control as Pimlico and other racing assets evolve. Independence Day in Annapolis: Annapolis-area celebrations run July 3–5 with fireworks (Sherwood Forest over the Severn River July 3; downtown Spa Creek July 4), parades, and America 250 events. Ocean City Wildlife: Nine rehabilitated sea turtles were released back into the Atlantic in Ocean City after recovery from cold-stunning. Travel Safety/Enforcement: Maryland Natural Resources Police reported spring 2026 enforcement and search-and-rescue activity, including citations tied to illegal gillnetting on the Patapsco River.

Frederick Douglass Rail Trail Update (Queen Anne’s/Talbot): MDOT will hold a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to share planning and design for a ~9.5-mile hard-surface bike and pedestrian trail along MD 309, linking Tuckahoe State Park with nearby communities and honoring Douglass with a nearby historical marker. Key Bridge Case (Baltimore): Prosecutors charged Dali’s chief engineer with failing to notify the Coast Guard about hazardous conditions before the 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, a major step in the long-running legal fallout. Summer Safety Push (Maryland): MDOT says 13 people have died in June crashes so far, as the “100 Deadliest Days” drive ramps up with DUI patrols and enforcement. Animal Shelter Help Needed (Baltimore County): Baltimore County Animal Services is at full capacity after taking in 40 animals in 24 hours; officials urge adoption and foster support. Bel Air History Stop (Harford County): The American Revolution Experience traveling exhibit lands in Bel Air July 3–20 at Hays House Museum and The History Center. Travel Tech for Fall Trips (NASA/UMBC): A NASA satellite study shows it can track autumn leaf pigments from space, promising better leaf-peeping planning.

Eastern Shore Trail Planning: MDOT/SHA will hold a public meeting June 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to share planning and design updates for the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail, a hard-surface ~9.5-mile bike and pedestrian path along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley. Baltimore Animal Shelter Push: Baltimore County Animal Services is at full capacity after taking in 40 animals in 24 hours, and is urging adoptions and foster support. Bel Air History Stop: The American Revolution Experience traveling exhibit lands in Bel Air July 3–20 at Hays House Museum and The History Center. Travel Air Upgrade: JetBlue expands premium Mint service from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego starting Nov. 19, plus additional Mint flights to Los Angeles and San Francisco this winter. Road Work Alert (Harford Co.): MDOT SHA will patch pavement on US 1 (Conowingo Rd) June 22–24, with one-lane traffic control and possible delays.

Eastern Shore Trail Planning: MDOT and SHA will hold a public meeting April 20 (5–7 p.m.) in Queen Anne to update planning for a ~9.5-mile Frederick Douglass Rail Trail along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley—aimed at boosting recreation and tourism. Road-Trip Safety Push: MDOT is sharing summer “fatal crash” totals (13 deaths June 1–15; 163 so far this year) as the state heads into the peak “100 deadliest days.” Bridge Work With Detours: Prince George’s County’s MD 382/Croom Road bridge replacement starts June 19 with a full detour running on or about through Aug. 22, rerouting via MD 381, MD 231, MD 5 and more. Ocean City Pilgrimage on the Boardwalk: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage held a sunrise procession June 11–12 with “perpetual pilgrims” and a 17-block route along the Eastern Shore. Key Bridge Case Update: A federal judge set the Francis Scott Key Bridge criminal trial for Oct. 4, 2027, with questions still hanging over whether a key defendant will be in court. Outdoor Tourism Upgrade: St. Michaels’ San Domingo Creek Park is set for waterfront commons improvements after DNR Chesapeake Bay Trust funding. Local Events & Travel Fun: Ocean City’s White Marlin Open returns Aug. 3–8 with new formats and a Non-Sonar division.

Trail & Tourism Planning: MDOT SHA will hold a public meeting April 20 (5–7 p.m.) on a proposed 9.5-mile Frederick Douglass Rail Trail along MD 309 between Tuckahoe State Park and Black Dog Alley in Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties—aimed at boosting recreation and visitor access. Road & Commute Alerts: Expect overnight lane closures on northbound I-95 in Howard County for remaining bridge joint repairs over MD 32, with detours via US 1. Prince George’s County Construction: A $6.4M replacement of the MD 382/Croom Road bridge over County Line Creek starts June 19 with a full detour through about Aug. 22. Ocean City Fishing: The 53rd Annual White Marlin Open returns Aug. 3–8 with new “Fish 3 of 6” flexibility and a Non-Sonar Division. Family Travel Picks: A new guide spotlights pet-friendly cruises and Chesapeake-area outings for travelers bringing dogs. Safety Watch: Maryland State Police report a serious head-on minibike crash in Nanjemoy; both riders were unhelmeted, and the 19-year-old died. Big Picture for Baltimore: A judge set the Key Bridge manager’s criminal conspiracy trial for Oct. 4, 2027.