Smart Energy Solutions In the News

Opponents of a proposed third nuclear reactor in Calvert County say roads there can't handle mass evacuation if there is disaster.

The proposed reactor would be built in Lusby, next to the two-reactor Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. But critics say there are no adequate evacuation routes in case of a meltdown or terrorist attack. The say the two-lane Thomas Johnson Memorial Bridge is already strained during a normal rush hour and could not handle a mass evacuation. A wider bridge is being studied but is years away.

Reactor opponents are also concerned that northbound Route 4 would quickly become clogged during an evacuation.

But officials with the county and Constellation Energy, the plant's operator say the current evacuation plan is safe and that the chance of a meltdown is remote.

Calvert Cliffs has provided jobs in Calvert County and residents generally view the plant as safe.