Forest Drive speed limit changes take effect on July 27, reducing the maximum speed from 40 mph to 35 mph. The rule covers the Annapolis corridor between Bywater Road and Arundel on the Bay Road, as the Baltimore Chronicle editorial team notes.
Where the Forest Drive speed limit will change
The new restriction applies only to a specified section of Forest Drive. Drivers should expect the lower limit after passing newly installed signs along the corridor.
The main details are:
- Effective date: July 27, 2026
- New speed limit: 35 mph
- Previous speed limit: 40 mph
- Starting point: Bywater Road
- Ending point: Arundel on the Bay Road
The change represents a 5 mph reduction. It does not establish a new limit for every section of Forest Drive.
Why Annapolis is lowering the speed limit
The decision follows the Forest Drive Safety Study conducted by the Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works. The corridor has been identified as having one of the county’s highest crash rates among county-maintained roads.
Officials are using the lower limit as part of a broader effort to reduce collision risks. The measure targets a busy urban corridor rather than introducing a citywide speed change.
| Key point | Confirmed information |
|---|---|
| Road | Forest Drive |
| Location | Annapolis, Maryland |
| Reduction | 40 mph to 35 mph |
| Effective date | July 27 |
| Responsible study | Forest Drive Safety Study |
| Agency | Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works |
The posted 35 mph limit becomes enforceable when it takes effect. Motorists should follow the permanent roadside signs rather than relying on previous driving habits.
What drivers will see before July 27
Variable message signs have been placed along the affected route to warn motorists about the upcoming change. Authorities said the signs would remain temporarily and display reminders about the new Forest Drive speed limit.
Drivers using the corridor should watch for updated signs near intersections and access points. The safest approach is to reduce speed before entering the affected section.
Earlier we wrote that Baltimore Ranked No. 3 Riskiest City for Drivers as Crash Risk Reaches 142% Above Average