Request For Information - Wetlands and Waterways Mitigation Banking Availability

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is issuing a Request for Information on wetlands and waterways mitigation banking availability to support the Chesapeake Bay Crossing Study: Tier 2 NEPA, with responses due November 3, 2026. This is a non-binding information-gathering exercise; no award will result from the RFI. Should the MDTA or State Highway Administration proceed, a formal solicitation will follow.

The MDTA seeks information on mitigation bank credit availability to offset unavoidable impacts to tidal and non-tidal wetlands, waterways, and streams. Respondents must answer seven detailed questions addressing qualifications, existing and potential bank opportunities, regulatory considerations, and procurement options. Submission format is PDF via email, not to exceed 20 pages and 8MB.

Anticipated mitigation needs include non-tidal wetland mitigation across five Maryland watersheds: 12.45 acres of forestry/forested palustrine open water and 0.84 acres of emergent marsh. Tidal wetland mitigation totals 0.06 acres of forest/shrub and 4.15 acres of emergent marsh across identified watersheds. Stream mitigation requirements include 178 linear feet of intermittent perennial stream and 1,047 linear feet of perennial stream. Open water mitigation totals 269.03 acres, and natural oyster bar mitigation totals 30.32 acres across multiple watersheds.

The MDTA will not reimburse participants for response preparation costs. Respondents are protected under Maryland General Provisions Article 13-212.1(b)(2), which provides safe harbor to subsequently compete in formal solicitations issued by MDTA or SHA. The RFI was originally posted February 9, 2026, with initial questions due February 18, 2026. Respondents who submitted to the original timeline need not resubmit; the November 3, 2026 due date reflects an extended response window for this RFI cycle.