Department of Transportation Launches “Don’t Block the Box” Campaign

Press Release

Contact:  German Vigil
               Kathy Dominick
               (410) 361-9296

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, September 10, 2018

Department of Transportation Launches “Don’t Block the Box” Campaign

Educational traffic campaign will help curb gridlock and increase safety at Baltimore intersections 

BALTIMORE, MD (September 10, 2018) – Baltimore City Department of Transportation Director, Michelle Pourciau, announced the launch of  the “Don’t Block the Box” traffic safety campaign.  This initiative aims to educate commuters and promote the safety of drivers and pedestrians traveling within the city’s busy intersections. This will also help curbing gridlock and increasing safety at Baltimore intersections.  

Throughout the downtown area and beyond, traffic congestion occurs when motorists block intersections and restrict the movement of other vehicles.  Drivers that enter an intersection or marked crosswalk without sufficient space to clear the other side prohibit cross traffic from moving.  Blocking an intersection causes gridlock, especially in the downtown area, because motorists with a green light are not able to proceed through the intersection.  

Drivers that block the intersection also endanger other travelers by obstructing crosswalks and bike lanes.  Pedestrians must often walk outside designated crossing areas to maneuver around gridlocked traffic.  “Blocking the box” increases traffic congestion and reduces public safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and emergency vehicles. In addition, tempers often flare and stress levels increase when drivers cannot proceed because the intersection is blocked. 

“Vehicles that enter an intersection when it’s not possible to cross all the way through create traffic bottlenecks and hazardous situations for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians,” said Director Pourciau.  “We are optimistic that this campaign will change driver behavior and result in safer and more efficient travel for everyone in the city.” 

Blocking the Box is illegal, and the Baltimore City Department of Transportation, along with the Baltimore City Police Department, will begin to citing motorists who violate this law.  Signs stating “Do Not Block Intersection” have been posted at intersections in the downtown area to remind drivers of this important rule.  Starting on Tuesday, September 11, 2018, warning notices will be given to motorists who violate this rule by blocking the box.  Enforcement initiatives will begin on Monday, October 15, 2018, and violators who “block the box” may receive a $125 fine.  

“The number of residents and employees in Downtown Baltimore continues to grow, so it’s crucial to reduce traffic congestion during peak travel times,” said Kirby Fowler, President of the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore. “Other cities have shown that ‘Don’t Block the Box’ initiatives are effective. The Downtown communities we represent are extremely supportive of the City’s efforts to implement this program.” 

In order to avoid possible fines and help prevent gridlock, drivers should not enter an intersection unless they can drive all the way through the other side.  Blocking an intersection is unsafe, illegal and contributes to traffic congestion, so citizens are encouraged to remember this simple rule – Don’t Block the Box! For more information and to view an informative video on our Don’t Block the Box campaign please visit our website at transportation.baltimorecity.gov.

 

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