Transit Funds Might Fall Short

Brac Upgrades Could Need Up To $470 Million More

Maryland emerged as one of the biggest winners in the 2005 version of BRAC in terms of job gains. Almost 20,000 military jobs were added at Aberdeen, Fort Meade and Bethesda, and that growth is expected to be matched by growth in contractor jobs at or near the bases. Of the 18 facilities examined in the GAO study, only Maryland and Virginia had as many as three.

While the states that gained jobs generally welcomed the increased economic activity - and were relieved not to have the problems associated with base closings - they also found themselves saddled with increased costs that the federal government would not fully reimburse.

The GAO identified a disconnect between a congressional mandate that BRAC-related projects be completed by 2011 and the realities of transportation timelines. It noted that major road projects can take 10 to 15 years to plan, fund, design and build.

The report credited Maryland with taking the lead in BRAC planning - a task that O'Malley handed to Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown.

According to the GAO, Maryland transportation officials identified 58 intersections near the three bases that are likely to become choked over the next five to seven years because of BRAC-related growth. The report said Maryland made improvements at 16 of those intersections a priority but may not have enough money to complete all the improvements.

Scott said that in addition to cost-cutting, the state is hoping to raise money through earmarks by the Maryland congressional delegation, the next six-year federal transportation spending bill, the Pentagon budget and private capital.

"There's no silver bullet. We're going to pursue multiple revenue sources," he said.