OPEN SESSION APRIL 30, 2026 PAGE 3 OF 4
Col. Scott further reported that the MDTA Police division currently has 55 sworn vacancies and 23 professional staff vacancies. An active academy class includes 22 MDTA police recruits and 7 allied agency officers, with a scheduled graduation date of September 16, 2026. Col. Scott broke down first quarter performance including traffic stops increased by 10%, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests up by 54%, and serious crimes decreased by 22%. He also stated that an area of concern is traffic collisions, which are up 20%. Detachment commanders and the traffic safety section have been deployed to identify causation and target problem areas with focused resources.
UPDATE – LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Mr. Bradley Ryon updated the MDTA Board on the Maryland Legislative Session that was adjourned on April 13, 2026. He gave updates on the bills that passed that will affect the MDTA as well as some bills that did not make it through.
UPDATE – LEGISLATIVE REPORTS SUBMITTED TO THE LEGISLATURE
Mr. Bradley Ryon updated the MDTA Board regarding the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, as mandated by the 2025 legislative session budget committees.
Mr. Ryon reported on legislative compliance the submission of the Joint Chairman’s Report (JCR), update on reconstruction progress, early work packages, and explanation of the federal reimbursement process to ensure budgetary transparency.
UPDATE – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Mr. Bruce Gartner began his report by welcoming Member Frank S. Waesche III to the MDTA Board. Member Waesche is a graduate of Clemson University with over 40 years of experience in both the public and private sectors and previously served as the Director of the Office of Engineering for the Maryland Transit Administration, where he oversaw an annual budget of $250 million. His expertise in design-build procurement and construction management will serve the MDTA well on the Capital Committee. Mr. Gartner also recognized MDTA safety and community initiatives highlighting the agency’s participation in National Work Zone Awareness Week including a Unity Ride and a Safety Fair. Mr. Gartner announced that an industry forum will be scheduled for May to provide information on the procurement process and encourage global competition to ensure a safe and efficient rebuild. He concluded his remarks by inviting the Board to the Annual Employee Awards in late May, which features a skills competition for maintenance and vehicle recovery staff to demonstrate their proficiency in challenging driving courses.
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