Proposed BFI Trash Transfer Station: The Elkridge community is strongly opposing a proposed trash transfer station by Browning-Ferris, Inc. on Route 1. Residents and business representatives have voiced concerns about increased traffic, reduced property values, odors, rodents, aesthetic impacts, and the potential harm to attracting upscale businesses, which could lower the county’s tax base. Testimony during hearings included worries about the area becoming a mix of “tasteful and senseless” development, and the Viaduct manager argued that the proposal contradicts existing development plans, suggesting an alternative location in Alpha Ridge. A petition against the station was submitted, though its impact was noted as limited. Concerns were also raised about the necessity of this facility given the presence of other transfer stations nearby.
South Hanover Road Connection Project: Plans are in development for a road connection project involving Route 1, South Hanover Road, Hanover Road, and I-295, with potential construction starting around the year 2000. This project aims to improve industrial traffic and emergency vehicle routes, potentially eliminating the at-grade rail crossing on Hanover Road. An alternative route via Smith Avenue and Coca Cola Drive is also being considered.
Potential Family Entertainment Center: If the BFI trash transfer station proposal is rejected, a family entertainment center could be built on adjacent land. This facility would include miniature golf courses, a basketball court, batting cages, driving ranges, volleyball courts, a picnic area, and a go-kart track. The owner of Rounding Third Sports Center indicated that he would not proceed with a similar planned development near US 95 if the BFI station is approved due to concerns about noise, smells, and dirty conditions.
Patapsco Valley State Park’s 90th Anniversary: The park is celebrating its 90th anniversary, marking its beginnings with a land donation in 1907. This initial gift contributed to the development of Maryland’s state park system, stream valley parks, and greenways. The park has grown significantly over the years and is establishing a new River of History & Conservation Center in the Avalon area as part of the anniversary celebration.
Merger of Elkridge National Bank and FCNB Bank: Elkridge National Bank merged with FCNB Bank on March 6, 1997. This merger expands the financial services available to former Elkridge Bank customers, including increased ATM access, 24-hour phone banking, and internet banking. All Elkridge Bank branches will continue to operate under the FCNB Bank name with the same staff and hours.
Beaver Activity and Flooding in Deep Run: Residents along Race Road are experiencing flooding issues linked to beaver activity in Deep Run. The beavers’ tree felling has created swamp-like conditions. While local authorities deny relocating beavers to the area, their protected status limits intervention. A park official suggested that increased runoff from new construction around Route 100 is a significant factor in the flooding.
Route 100 Completion with Roundabouts: The final section of Route 100 is expected to be completed around late 1998 and will incorporate four roundabouts to manage traffic flow between Route 104 and Route 103. These roundabouts are designed to improve safety by eliminating the need for stops and traffic lights, requiring drivers to yield to existing traffic within the circle.
In Memoriam: The Viaduct newspaper acknowledged the recent deaths of several Elkridge community members.
Elkridge Elementary School Surplus Committee: A public meeting was held to gather input on potential future uses for the former Elkridge Elementary School building and grounds. Options under consideration include sale, lease, or retention for county government or mixed use. The County Executive will review the input and inform the County Council of his decision.
Disappearance of Nancy Riggins: The case of Nancy Riggins, an Elkridge resident who went missing in July 1996, was featured on the Geraldo television show. Her friends and coworkers sought national attention for her disappearance, hoping to generate new information leading to a resolution.
Elkridge Community Association’s 30th Anniversary: The Howard County Council honored the Elkridge Community Association for its 30th anniversary, recognizing its long history of representing residents’ civic interests and property concerns.
Recycling Update for 1997: Howard County provided an update on recyclable materials for 1997, listing acceptable items like various cans, glass and plastic bottles, and paper products. The update also specified items that are not accepted in curbside recycling. Yard trimmings recycling for eastern Howard County resumed on April 1, 1997.
Link to Full Issue:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jtKTMy7dZSs2x9mBxFATkbNf3XUHNO0U/view?usp=drive_link