This edition of The Viaduct newspaper from October-November 1996 covers a range of community concerns and events in Elkridge. A significant issue was the proposed expansion of a Browning Ferris Industries (BFI) waste transfer station near Aladdin Village, which raised concerns among residents like Evelyn Gyr about increased garbage truck traffic, noise, and potential health and accident occurrences. The Elkridge Community Association voted to oppose this zoning appeal.
Another prominent concern was the increased highway noise expected from a raised speed limit on I-95. Residents living near the unprotected side of the highway anticipated a significant increase in noise levels, with existing decibel levels already exceeding permitted limits. While a noise wall had been built on one side of the road, it intensified the sound for the other side. Residents were encouraged to voice their displeasure to their Annapolis representatives to push for noise mitigation measures.
The community also saw opposition to a proposed crematory planned for South Hanover Road. Due to neighborhood opposition, the lease for the property was withdrawn, much to the frustration of the developer who felt unheard. Questions were raised by residents, conveyed through Polly Thornton of The Viaduct, regarding the owner’s experience, prior permit denials, financial viability, and the lack of state certification required for operating a crematory.
Residents near Dorsey Road and Lennox Park formed the Dorsey Community Association to address issues with the odors and impact of the Regional Composting Facility. A lawsuit was filed on behalf of residents claiming adverse effects, and they sought the facility’s relocation or compensation.
The newspaper also provided information on upcoming elections, including statements from candidates for Circuit Court Judge, school board, and U.S. Congress, as well as advice on voting on amendments to county laws. The Elkridge Community Association hosted a meeting for candidates to speak to the community.
Several community events and initiatives were highlighted, such as the 6th Annual Halloween Contest, the formation of an Elkridge Area Jaycees winter volleyball team, and the Elkridge Library’s spooky-themed programs for children. The Greater Elkridge Teen Center faced overcrowding issues and hoped to utilize the old Elkridge Elementary School, though the process for the state to declare it surplus property was lengthy. A new Howard Area Transit Service (HATS) bus route was introduced to serve Elkridge and the U.S. Route 1 corridor.
The Elkridge Evening Quilters sought closure to the story of a quilt they completed for charity, hoping to find the man who initially provided the fabric. Additionally, there was a dedication ceremony for the new Colonial Landing Apartments for seniors.
A correction was published regarding a previous article about Toomey’s Hardware, including a missing paragraph about the business’s history. The Maryland Department of Transportation decided to renumber MD 176 between U.S. 1 and Md. 295 to Md. 103. Nextel Communications planned to erect a cellular phone tower on the former Elkridge Drive-In Theatre property.
The Viaduct also featured a “Dear Viaduct” section with letters from readers, including one about the cost of playing golf at the new Timbers at Troy Golf Course and issues with receiving the newspaper. The Elk Ridge Heritage Society sought volunteers to help share the community’s history.
Finally, the Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department conducted a confined space rescue drill, and the Seton Medical Group announced the opening of a new health center in Elkridge.
Link to Full Issue:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bHW1MBskfAwMYvN428QMuDHG6GBiqBG4/view?usp=drive_link