tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4116651616026900952024-03-14T17:13:18.631-04:00Go MontgomeryNews and information about transportation, including roads, transit, hiker-biker trails and pedestrian safety.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1195125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-71915526186601967022024-03-14T16:38:00.013-04:002024-03-14T17:12:46.982-04:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter for March 2024<p> </p><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px;"></span><div class="bulletin_body" id="bulletin_body" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 700px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="flexible-abe-main-table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding-bottom: 20px; padding-top: 20px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566963" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; 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padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p align="center" style="color: #666666; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/bulletins/390589f" rel="noopener" style="color: #666666; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Share / View as a webpage</a></p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566966" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-69bd8185-cde1-4747-9dd2-df5031f18110" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; 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line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 600px;" width="600" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566969" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0c71ddc0-bc9c-4b99-8701-afc401ad59e3" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566970" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-f459d175-68b8-44af-8988-30fdb324fad3" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-f459d175-68b8-44af-8988-30fdb324fad3-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="universitybuslane4" class="govd_template_image" height="285" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9144148/5320332/microsoftteams-image-15-444_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566972" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-33f9f2e3-9919-44ac-a9c7-cbe957a79fcd" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566973" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0ed60b57-70dc-47ca-9bfb-c6896d8b1cec" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0ed60b57-70dc-47ca-9bfb-c6896d8b1cec-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Andrew Friedson Joined in Launch of Completed Dedicated Bus Lanes Project on University Boulevard in Wheaton</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Friday, March 8, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Andrew Friedson gathered at Wheaton Forest Local Park to celebrate the completion of the dedicated bus lane project on University Boulevard (MD 193) between Amherst Avenue and Dennis Avenue in Wheaton. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Also joining the event were Councilmember and Transportation and Environment Committee Chair Evan Glass, Councilmembers Gabe Albornoz and Natali Fani-González, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Senior Vice President for Bus Services Leroy Jones, Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administrator (MDOT/SHA) Will Pines and MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The brightly painted red dedicated bus lanes run along the park border on University Boulevard and were opened for use in late February. The dedicated bus lanes along the more than two-mile section of roadway will allow buses to travel with minimal motor vehicle traffic obstruction along one of the area’s busiest and most congested corridors. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The dedicated bus lanes on University Boulevard are part of a larger MCDOT program, the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9UL1Byb2plY3RzL2J1c3ByaW9yaXR5Lmh0bWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzA4LjkxNTIwNTExIn0.ciGSyWdb4iYOxfglcnyA1H98HU34Imt6bJSvq0Tptho%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F238492655883-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7Ce434fb58942b4a134a3208dc3f9ad26b%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638455181394873119%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3cqvmdYs2OhGX%2FP5RW7xpYBag7Djs2hu%2FP6%2Fuifxf4U%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Bus Priority Project</a>, that will advance similar bus-only lanes. The bus lanes will provide faster, more reliable service along a route with critical service connections to MetroRail, Ride On, Metro buses and the Silver Spring Transit Center. The lanes are designated with solid red paint and “Bus Only” text. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The University bus lane corridor serves three Ride On bus routes (Route 7, Route 8 and Route 9) and WMATA’s C2 and C4 Metrobus routes. The C2 and C4 Metrobus routes carry about 9,300 riders each weekday, the second-highest ridership route in the Washington, D.C. region. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT will monitor the effectiveness and safety of the bus lanes as a pilot program for 12 months. An evaluation will be done in December 2025 to confirm that the bus lanes are beneficial on the corridor. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The new bus lanes will allow use by emergency vehicles and bicycles. Cars can only enter the bus lane approximately 100 feet prior to making a right turn, as indicated by striped, red lines. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Details about the dedicated bus lane project on University Boulevard can be found on MCDOT’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9UL1Byb2plY3RzL2J1c3ByaW9yaXR5L3VuaXZlcnNpdHkuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDguOTE1MjA1MTEifQ.k9bzkDJUfJ-axjeuGic2S5YzeOGYzrFHjqqUKZPe65E%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F238492655883-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7Ce434fb58942b4a134a3208dc3f9ad26b%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638455181394886761%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=BURvJisJjZfPMBLL9ni8t8uPZwBUZqOJF3qaOxusW08%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">University Boulevard Dedicated Bus Lane</a> project page. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44894&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566975" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-6f0b582c-6c46-43c4-a8d5-e716330b607c" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #3d4c4b; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8641641/71x332sidewaysmcdot2_original.png") no-repeat rgb(61, 76, 75); box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-6f0b582c-6c46-43c4-a8d5-e716330b607c-padding" style="border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="Antonio Lucas" class="govd_template_image" height="182" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9154800/5321735/microsoftteams-image-8_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Bus Operator is Being Hailed a Hero for Finding Missing Woman </strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT Ride On bus operator Antonio Lucas swung into action after hearing a report for a missing, disoriented older woman. WUSA9 spoke exclusively to both the bus driver and dispatcher that worked together to find the missing woman. Read the WUSA9 article <a href="https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/ride-on-bus-driver-helps-find-missing-woman-with-alzheimers/65-8fb3db68-f51a-4a88-9400-2b9fdd1086d6" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="transitdriverapprec" class="govd_template_image" height="156" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9154857/5321736/transitdriverappreciationday-logo_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT to Celebrate ‘Transit Driver Appreciation Day’ on Monday, March 18</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is thanking drivers by hosting lunch at each bus depot and is asking residents to thank their driver. Transit Appreciation Day celebrates the service of all public transit employees.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT employs more than 650 bus operators to support transit services that include <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Ride On</a>, Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/RideOnExtra.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">extRa</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/flex/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Flex</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Flash</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566978" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-87ec942e-b39a-4be0-9d61-0beaba3abd0a" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566979" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-5eb53d8d-76bb-4c6c-8020-70d3cea8a086" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-5eb53d8d-76bb-4c6c-8020-70d3cea8a086-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="soberridelandscape" class="govd_template_image" height="287" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9144212/5320335/flb1kfdxoaarrnj44_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566981" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-bd14ae34-3f9f-46be-8aa2-4890794968d2" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566982" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-dea1a329-73b0-4563-88b2-c96091ff14f1" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-dea1a329-73b0-4563-88b2-c96091ff14f1-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Reminds Drivers to Not Drink and Drive and to Consider Other Transportation Options for Safe Travels on St. Patrick's Day</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">If you are planning on celebrating with alcohol this St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17, MCDOT and the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) remind the public not to drink and drive. The <a href="https://wrap.org/free-st-patricks-day-lyft-rides-offered-throughout-greater-washington-to-prevent-drunk-driving-3/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">National Highway Traffic Safety Administration</a> tells us that nearly half of all traffic deaths on St. Patrick’s Day involve drunk drivers.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">“If you plan to drink, do not drive,” said MCPD Chief Marcus Jones. “Our officers will be conducting saturation patrols throughout the County and arresting intoxicated drivers. The tragedy that occurs when people get behind the wheel intoxicated is 100 percent preventable.”</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT urges residents to plan ahead before heading out to celebrate.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">“There are ample ride services that will get you home safety,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “If you’re choosing to celebrate with alcohol this St. Patrick’s Day, plan out your ride home ahead of time to keep our shared roadways safe for everyone.”</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Residents are encouraged to use of one the following transportation options:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">SoberRide is a free ride home program offered through the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) in partnership with Lyft. A limited number of promotional codes for Lyft will be posted at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 17 on <a href="http://www.wrap.org/soberride/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">SoberRide.com</a>. The codes are valid for up to $15 off one ride home taken in Lyft’s Washington, D.C. coverage area from noon on Sunday, March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day) until midnight. Participants must be 21+.<br /><br /></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Use MCDOT’s Ride On bus – With fare of $1 on all County buses, there are currently 80 routes throughout the County that operate daily. Download the free, regional public transit app, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Trip Planner</a>, to plan your next trip.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44910" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 333.006px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="rideoncontest55" class="govd_template_image" height="370" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9155027/copy-of-copy-of-copy-of-what-drives-you-contest-sm_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Hosts “What Drives You” Ride On Contest Through Tuesday, April 30</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">What Drives YOU? Since 1975 Ride On has helped people in Montgomery County get to the places that are important to them. How has Ride On shaped your life?</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Post your Ride On memories on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or <a href="https://twitter.com/Rideonmct" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a> and tag @RideOnMCT for a chance to win one of three gift cards ($100 Amazon, $75 Visa or $50 Barnes and Noble). Winners will be announced on Friday, May 10.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566984" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-ea629a5d-7bf5-4b9d-ace1-7cf6d9c5f6ab" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #3d4c4b; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8641519/71x332sidewaysmcdot_original.png") no-repeat rgb(61, 76, 75); box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-ea629a5d-7bf5-4b9d-ace1-7cf6d9c5f6ab-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="womenshistory" class="govd_template_image" height="92" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9147033/5320336/whm-24_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Celebrates Women's History Throughout March</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is recognizing female engineers and inventors throughout March on social media platforms including <a href="https://twitter.com/mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="loveflashpack" class="govd_template_image" height="89" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9147069/5320337/fljvz3bxoaulaz2_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Love Flash Contest Winner Announced</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT announced the Love Flash Contest winner on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow/status/1498731422642839558" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a>. MCDOT wants to thank everyone who participated and who currently rides the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/US29BRT/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Flash</a> on Route US29/Colesville Road.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="greenfestlogo9" class="govd_template_image" height="96" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9147075/5320338/greenfest-instagram-4277579004-e1679435888964_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>SAVE THE DATE: GreenFest Will Be Held on Saturday, April 27</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Plan for your family to attend this year’s <a href="https://montgomerycountygreenfest.org/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">GreenFest</a> event that will be held at the Blackrock Center of the Arts in Germantown. MCDOT will have a table promoting the department's <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/GreenServices.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">green initiatives</a>. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="wheelchairsecured" class="govd_template_image" height="167" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9155572/5321737/wheelchairbus_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">March is Wheelchair Securement Month</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">According to the United States Census, 3.3 million individuals over the age of 15 use mobility devices such as wheelchairs. Learn how a wheelchair is properly secured on a Ride On bus <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-l0shENey0" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566987" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-f79cf9a0-e075-4c33-a508-d50a827bb4a6" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566988" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-fb953901-1159-4593-92e8-dcf6ad5b17b5" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-fb953901-1159-4593-92e8-dcf6ad5b17b5-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="bikescooterclasses2023" class="govd_template_image" height="307" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8678688/5320340/mcdot-bikeescooterclasses_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566990" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-390411ec-a86c-41eb-b8d6-6a663bc1632c" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566991" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-3cc1e27c-a961-4fb8-9d4a-77cb0e324fd2" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-3cc1e27c-a961-4fb8-9d4a-77cb0e324fd2-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Offering Adult Bike and<br />E-Scooter Classes in April, May and June</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT will be offering low-cost adult bike classes in April, May and June. The classes will include both a Learn to Ride and Basic Skills class. MCDOT will also offer four free, walk-up electric scooter classes following select bike classes. View bike and e-scooter class dates <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44918&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Advance registration is required to participate in the bike classes, with a cost of $10 for Montgomery County residents. There is no charge for Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) or <a href="https://capitalbikeshare.com/pricing/for-all" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Capital Bikeshare For All</a> members. However, registration is still required.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The classes are open to residents 18 and over, are limited to 25 people and fill up quickly. <a href="https://waba.org/classes/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Online registration</a> is currently open for April classes on the WABA website under the classes tab. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Free two-hour adult e-scooter classes are being offered on a drop-in basis on four select days. Anyone 18 or over with a valid driver’s license or ID can join. E-scooters will be provided.</p><img alt="bethbikelanes" class="govd_template_image" height="301" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6803817/bethesdabikelanes_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County features a total of 112 miles of bike lanes, bike-friendly road shoulders and separated bike lanes, also known as cycle tracks, for bike riders to enjoy countywide. MCDOT installed the first eight miles of the County’s separated bike lanes in 2014 and is continuing to build more throughout the County. Multiple <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/bikeways/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">protected bike lane projects</a> are currently in the planning and construction phases. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566993" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-954321ce-351c-43b7-a0ea-e11a3e25486b" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-954321ce-351c-43b7-a0ea-e11a3e25486b-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Images/BTWD2024_Flyer-Locations_v4(1).jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #2176ae; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img alt="biketowork2024" class="govd_template_image" height="220" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9144704/5320341/btwd2024-flyer-locations-v4-1_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /></a><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Registration Open for ‘Bike to Work Day’ to Be Held on Friday, May 17</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bike to Work Day registration is now open and the first 15,000 bicyclists who <a href="https://www.tfaforms.com/4886950" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">register</a> and participate will get a free t-shirt and automatically entered into a raffle for a chance to win a new bike.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The event is held across the nation on the third Friday of May to celebrate bicycling as a clean, fun and healthy way to get to work.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Starting at 6 a.m., bike riders can stop by any of the eight MCDOT-sponsored pit stops for refreshments, live music, local vendor displays and to participate in free raffles that include a chance to win a new bike.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Teleworkers and leisure riders are encouraged to participate. Learn more at <a href="https://www.biketoworkmetrodc.org/" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">biketoworkmetrodc.org</a>.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566996" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-15624673-6c46-4c74-8ded-11f77fcb0f27" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111566997" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-668d2454-3e70-4858-ab94-432584fc6ca9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-668d2454-3e70-4858-ab94-432584fc6ca9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="bikerolltoschool45" class="govd_template_image" height="291" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9148197/5320342/bikerolltoschool2024c_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111566999" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d7cb5aac-103d-441c-94ed-5b5f6223b135" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567000" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-f74ddb18-482d-4c7a-a3f1-06548b97e514" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-f74ddb18-482d-4c7a-a3f1-06548b97e514-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Bike and Roll to School Day Will Be Held on Wednesday, May 8</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">All schools are invited to join in and host a celebration. Schools can reach out for planning ideas and materials through the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/srts/schools.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Safe Routes to School website</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT’s safety mascot, Zeal the Zebra, will host a special event at a selected school.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County elementary schools can apply to host this year's event by filling out this <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.seamlessdocs.com/f/B2SDay2024" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">brief online form</a>. The selected school will be announced in April. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">See photos from the 2023 event <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/albums/72177720308008573/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a> that was hosted by Rock Creek Valley Elementary School in Rockville.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 333.006px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="artcontest24" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9152273/5320343/2024-art-contest_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Kids Pedestrian Safety Art Contest Coming Soon</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT’s Safe Routes to School Program is hosting its fourth annual <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Pedsafety/ArtContest/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Pedestrian Safety Art Contest</a> that is open to all Montgomery County Elementary Schools to raise awareness about pedestrian safety with school-aged children.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The contest will be open from Monday, April 1 through Tuesday, April 30. Students are encouraged to use creative thinking to educate about pedestrian safety. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">See photos of last year's winners online <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/albums/72177720308486299/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 333.006px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="safetyday" class="govd_template_image" height="123" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9152430/5320344/safety-day_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT to Host Safety Day on Saturday, May 11; Now Accepting Vendor Applications Through Saturday, April 20 </h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is hosting its first Safety Day event to support the <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Vision Zero</a> mission of eliminating severe traffic crashes. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Safety Day will take place at the MCPS Carver Educational Center located at 850 Hungerford Drive in Rockville between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Vendors can apply online <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SafetyDay.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567002" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c9586039-7ddb-40f8-8ce9-2703fd266a16" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c9586039-7ddb-40f8-8ce9-2703fd266a16-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="HUPD2023winners" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/05/7607982/5320345/hupdwinnerstw_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Receives 195 Teen Video Entries for the 'Heads Up Phones Down' Safety Video Contest</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT received 195 entries from 27 high schools showing the dangers of distracted driving.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Judging is currently taking place and winners will be announced with school visits on Friday, March 15. Winners will be posted on the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/HUPD/" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">contest website</a> on Monday, March 18.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="rideonvisitschools" class="govd_template_image" height="182" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9149993/5320366/march-11-blake-hs-ride-on-table333_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Ride On Visits Blake High School in Silver Spring to Promote Kids Ride Free Program</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Monday, March 11 students had a chance to learn about transportation options and sign up for a SmarTrip card.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Youth 18 and under can ride all Ride On buses and most Metro buses within the county for free by using a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/kidsridefree/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Youth Cruiser SmarTrip</a> card.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567005" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d07ce4ac-2243-4b97-a067-e353e3000ab3" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567006" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a8949c1b-95ef-4209-9d2e-526a3d48ebba" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a8949c1b-95ef-4209-9d2e-526a3d48ebba-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="potholes-mcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="304" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9147158/5320367/1potholerr_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567008" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-c82dc27d-5231-4275-911b-626b31eb7673" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567009" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d6e0bcc4-aa06-4b4c-a7ac-fb3f0c2304c9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d6e0bcc4-aa06-4b4c-a7ac-fb3f0c2304c9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Who Do You Call to Get a Pot Hole Fixed?</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT maintains more than 5,200 miles of county roads in Montgomery County. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Residents can report a pothole on a county road to the MC311 system – either <a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/SolutionView.aspx?SolutionId=1-234ONR" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">online</a> or by phone at 240-777-0311, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. or on the social media platform <a href="http://www.twitter.com/@311mc311" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">X</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA) fills potholes and maintains state roads which have numbers, such as Rockville Pike (355) and River Road (190). Report potholes on state roads directly to MSHA <a href="http://marylandsha.force.com/customercare/request_for_service" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">online</a> or by calling 1-800-323-6742.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Municipalities such as the cities of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Takoma Park handle their own pothole repairs.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 333.006px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Temporarily Closes Public Parking Lot 18 in Silver Spring</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT’s public parking <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html#collapseFifteen" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Lot 18</a> located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/938+Philadelphia+Ave,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20910/@38.9895973,-77.0261806,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c8bdb604fb99:0xd4172a2c47bd7276!8m2!3d38.9895255!4d-77.026198!16s%2Fg%2F11b8vg8rpf?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">938 Philadelphia Avenue</a> is currently closed. The lot will be used as a staging area for the construction of an adjacent cycle track over the next year.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Long-term parking can be found nearby in <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html#collapseThree" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Garage 4</a> located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/8110+Fenton+St,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20910/@38.9909594,-77.0252309,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c8bc5e0c3aa9:0xc52cdf25d93b7e75!8m2!3d38.9909594!4d-77.0252309!16s%2Fg%2F11c23__v6b?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">8110 Fenton Street</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567011" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-e2cb6490-0bb2-4ad2-b078-a476502f21ef" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-e2cb6490-0bb2-4ad2-b078-a476502f21ef-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="washinggarage" class="govd_template_image" height="172" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8509079/garagewash-original_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Prepares for Spring/Summer Cleaning of County Garages</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT will clean 21 public parking garages in <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Bethesda</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Silver Spring</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Wheaton</a> on nights and weekends beginning Monday, April 8.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">These efforts work to remove grease and oil that would otherwise end up in our waterways.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The full schedule can be viewed online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Resources/Files/Spring%202024%20Washdown%20Decreasing%20Schedule.pdf" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567014" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-cf313f55-ef2a-417d-b61d-7d3c1444033e" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567015" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-dd415e53-13b0-455a-b54f-9d6bebfdf886" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-dd415e53-13b0-455a-b54f-9d6bebfdf886-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="whatisnew" class="govd_template_image" height="244" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9155933/5321738/adobestock-133492249sm-original_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567018" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-91b67f10-aa53-4616-b28f-f0bdae82d71e" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567019" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-b3631ed6-1519-4b62-b61a-8340df6aef9d" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-b3631ed6-1519-4b62-b61a-8340df6aef9d-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Virtual Public Hearing Will Be Held on the Replacement of the Dennis Avenue Bridge Over the Sligo Creek Tributary (Wheaton Branch) in Silver Spring on Wednesday, April 3</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Wednesday, April 3, starting at 7 p.m., MCDOT will discuss the proposed replacement of the Dennis Avenue Bridge over Sligo Creek Tributary (Wheaton Branch) in Silver Spring. The existing Dennis Avenue Bridge is in need of replacement to enhance the safety of the traveling public. The public will have an opportunity to provide testimony and ask questions.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Visit the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/dennisave/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">project website</a> and provide feedback via this <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZLPF0w9MYDdJp47Wu_XBy_VUOU80MEdLV01KNlgxTDJWQ1hOU09WOFZKMC4u" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">online comment</a> form or by email to the Project Manager, Greg Hwang at <a href="mailto:greg.hwang@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">greg.hwang@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44881&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Hybrid Public Meeting Will Be Held on the Extension of North High Street in Olney on Wednesday, April 10</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Wednesday, April 10, starting at 6:30 p.m., MCDOT will discuss the preliminary (35%) designs for the North High Street Extended project. The public will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide comments. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://tinyurl.com/NorthHigh-Register" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Online registration</a> is required to attend. This meeting will be accessible both in-person and virtually. Meeting materials will be posted on the <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/NorthHighSt/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">project website</a> prior to the scheduled meeting. The in-person meeting will be held at the Olney Library, <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/cyEE8Z3AVDnACiha8" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">3500 Olney Laytonsville Road, Olney, 20832</a>. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44919&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567021" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-038a701c-107d-456c-b822-6d6922208654" style="background-color: #5c8794; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-038a701c-107d-456c-b822-6d6922208654-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Temporary Bus Stop Relocation on Rockville Pike Impacting Ride On Routes 46 and 101</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The bus stop at Rockville Pike and Halpine Road has been <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44847&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">relocated</a> further down on Rockville Pike to facilitate the demolition and rebuilding of a new mixed-use path along Rockville Pike through Friday, April 12. Signs are posted directing riders to the relocated stop. The bus stop relocation impacts Ride On routes <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route046.html" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">46</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route101.html" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">101</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding: 1px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Temporary Metrorail Shutdown Between Friendship Heights and Grosvenor Stations Scheduled for This Weekend, March 16-17, Closure Will Affect Ride On Bus Bay Locations</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Due to a temporary Metrorail shutdown between Friendship Heights and Grosvenor stations, Bethesda and Medical Center Metrorail stations will be closed Saturday, March 16 through Sunday, March 17.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">WMATA will provide express shuttle buses. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44880&Dept=50" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding: 1px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Temporary Bus Stop Closure on University Boulevard to Impact Ride On Bus Route 15</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Beginning Monday, March 25, Ride On Route 15 bus stop at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Merrimac+Dr+%26+University+Blvd+E,+Takoma+Park,+MD+20903/@38.9926433,-76.9915324,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c6126c781bfd:0x5f6eb6eaf01f3e7e!8m2!3d38.9926433!4d-76.9915324!16s%2Fg%2F11f3h7jrm4?entry=ttu" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">University Boulevard E and Merrimac Drive</a> will be closed to facilitate Purple Line work. Work is projected to last until Sunday, April 7.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Riders are directed to use Bus Bay E at Takoma Langley Transit Center or the bus stop at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/MD-193+%26+Forston+St,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20912/@38.9947739,-76.9929084,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c60de17c8031:0x621f5490fb8d1d67!8m2!3d38.9947739!4d-76.9929084!16s%2Fg%2F11hb9krrnp?entry=ttu" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">University Boulevard and Forston Street</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567035" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-f5234ee6-a63e-4e06-8768-8543e453a866" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567036" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-3cf366ac-9f9f-400b-aff6-d435c5b532a9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-3cf366ac-9f9f-400b-aff6-d435c5b532a9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="commuter news" class="govd_template_image" height="242" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9155901/5321739/commuternews_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567039" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-88c1269f-94b8-4972-9051-5a5dbf03d9c4" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567040" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a660c9f3-681c-472f-8827-53665984394c" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a660c9f3-681c-472f-8827-53665984394c-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Metro Announces Three-Year Capital Construction Plans, Including Red Line Station Closures This Summer</h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro has announced plans for major capital construction over the next three years to modernize the Metrorail system, improve safety and reliability, and maintain a state of good repair. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Beginning in early June, Glenmont, Wheaton, Forest Glen, Silver Spring and Takoma stations on the Red Line will be closed. The closure will continue through early September with the possibility of reducing the work zone to allow Takoma Station to reopen prior to the end of construction.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-announces-three-year-capital-construction-plans-including-Red-Line-station-closures-this-summer.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Bring on the Blossoms: Metro Gets Ready for Cherry Blossom Season</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Tis the season for pink petals and a blanket of blooms as the nation's capital prepares for the cherry blossoms to flower and the large influx of visitors who come to see them.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Beginning on Monday, March 18 and continuing through Friday, April 19, Metro will not perform any track work until after 10 p.m. to maintain frequent, reliable service for our everyday riders and visitors headed to see the cherry blossoms and other events around the Tidal Basin.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">In case of an earlier or later peak bloom, dates free of track work may shift. The National Cherry Blossom Festival attracts more than 1.5 million people each year.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Bring-on-the-blossoms-Metro-gets-ready-for-the-petals.cfm" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Year Into Strategic Plan, Metro Marks Improvements in Ridership, Customer Satisfaction, Public Safety and Fare Collection While Reducing Expenses</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/One-year-into-strategic-plan-Metro-marks-substantial-improvements.cfm" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567041" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-732a21c4-8d62-45df-8618-ecada495d48a" style="background-color: #5c8794; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-732a21c4-8d62-45df-8618-ecada495d48a-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Commuter Tax-Free Refund Benefit Increase</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Federal Transportation Fringe Benefit increased the pre-tax limits in 2024 to $315 a month for transit, vanpool, and qualified parking. Guidance on the 2024 limits can be found <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15b.pdf" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Employers Can Save $1,200 Per Employee Each Year with Commuter Benefits</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Employers who offer subsidies for commuting by transit, vanpool, carpool, telework, walking or biking, or provide Guaranteed Ride Home, First/Last Mile, or Parking Cash Out programs may be eligible to claim 50% of the subsidies paid through annual Maryland tax returns (up to $1,200 per employee per year).</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclicks.aweber.com%2Fy%2Fct%2F%3Fl%3DK5ZFS%26m%3DhgDiThF3u3f5KMU%26b%3Dp0IXvx7bkil_ucdW9lDFQQ&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7Ca91e2143233a47be1f0a08dc105bbbed%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638403233394736636%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C62000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tIb5UsEaPD6o7fFQGeKfNDlyb%2BbfnzFDvtDVYOMFP1c%3D&reserved=0" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a> and for free assistance email <a href="mailto:commuterchoice@mdot.maryland.gov" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">commuterchoice@mdot.maryland.gov</a>. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Public Can Provide Feedback on Proposed MTA Commuter Bus Service Changes Through Monday, April 29</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) FY24 – 29 Draft Consolidated Transportation Plan outlines the Department’s six-year capital program. To balance the budget, MDOT was required to make tough decisions on how to spend limited resources to continue providing services that support communities and the economy. The public can provide feedback at one of five public hearings (three virtual, two in-person). Learn more <a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/commuter-bus2024" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Montgomery County Executive Elrich Releases Recommended $7.1 Billion Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44924" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">proposed FY25 operating budget</a> includes investments in transportation.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567048" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#E9E9E9" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-16bb60be-993f-4de9-bf5a-a8eb12f231c7" style="background-color: #e9e9e9;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567049" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="vox1" class="govd_template_image" height="121" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9148869/5320368/vox1_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>American Drivers Are Now Even More Distracted by Their Phones; Pedestrian Deaths Are Soaring</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">During the pandemic, distracted driving increased, and it hasn’t gone down since.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">American drivers use their phones while behind the wheel more often than Europeans, according to data gathered by a contractor for insurance companies, which helps explain the growing disparity in traffic deaths between the U.S. and Europe. Read the VOX article <a href="https://www.vox.com/24078289/us-drivers-distracted-driving-cellphone-road-deaths-pedestrians" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="cnn6" class="govd_template_image" height="116" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9148907/5320369/cnn6_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 class="elementtoproof" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Switching to Electric Vehicles Could Prevent Millions of Illnesses in US Children by 2050, Report Estimates</strong></h3><p class="elementtoproof" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Switching to electric vehicles, in combination with clean power sources, would prevent millions of illnesses among children, according to the American Lung Association. Read the CNN article <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/21/health/electric-vehicles-air-pollution-kids/index.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="artv6" class="govd_template_image" height="184" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/03/9148924/5320371/article67888_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Public Transit Ridership Continues Post-COVID </strong>B<strong>ounce Back</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Some four years later, public transit agencies are still adjusting to new ridership habits caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. After falling to 20% of pre-pandemic levels in April 2020, ridership on U.S. transit agencies is now at about 77% of pre-pandemic levels. Read the Metro Magazine article <a href="https://www.metro-magazine.com/10216134/public-transit-ridership-continues-post-covid-bounce-back" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567056" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-b86e82b7-b5bd-4cd4-ba27-eaa03bcf74d4" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567057" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-7eebd092-e88c-4e1d-85a1-65be1a0530bd" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-7eebd092-e88c-4e1d-85a1-65be1a0530bd-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="192"><img alt="mcdotsocial04956" class="govd_template_image" height="152" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8685289/5320372/socialmedia4590_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 192px;" width="192" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p align="left" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><br />Follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="http://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.threads.net/@mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Threads</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">For more information on MCDOT programs<br />and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and<br /><a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_350" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news<br />by phone or email.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 539.992px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="111567059" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#384C5E" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0b1d9ab5-3d21-4351-8f28-e6cb8cd57cd2" style="background-color: #384c5e;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="111567060" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-912030be-3b8c-48e9-a07a-68353e73b9db" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-912030be-3b8c-48e9-a07a-68353e73b9db-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p align="center" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #c4def5; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</strong></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-47375679316780608732024-02-08T13:50:00.008-05:002024-02-08T13:50:51.894-05:00 Go Montgomery! Special Flash Edition - FEBRUARY 2024<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="ridetheflashheader" class="govd_template_image" height="339" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2020/11/3835428/4573371/gomonewsheader_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/BRT/Resources/Images/brt-system-map-071423.png" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="brtsystem24" class="govd_template_image" height="266" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947065/5246902/flash-brt-final_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 399px;" width="399" /></a><h3 class="page-header" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Montgomery County Receives More Than $87 Million to Support Flash Bus Rapid Transit and Pedestrian Safety Projects from Maryland Board of Public Works</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich announced that the Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) approved more than $87 million in funding for pedestrian improvement projects and advancing the Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network in Montgomery County. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The State funds were allocated to the County through a General Assembly Bond Bill passed in 2022. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">An additional $6 million was allocated to the MD 355 Flash BRT corridor in a Fiscal Year 2021 bond bill. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The funding also will be used as a local match for two Federal transportation grants including the Federal Small Starts Capital Investment grant for Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT and the Federal New Starts grant for MD 355 Flash BRT. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Flash is Montgomery County’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service. BRT is a limited-stop bus service that is gaining popularity in metropolitan areas across the U.S. and worldwide. BRT systems such as Flash are designed to arrive every few minutes, have upgraded amenities, pre-boarding payment, priority traffic light signaling and dedicated bus lanes where possible. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">completed Flash network</a> will include nine routes, including a US 29 extension to Howard County, with more than 100 stops. Flash fare is the same as other County buses, $1 per ride. Seniors 65-and-over, persons with disabilities and youth 18-and-under ride County buses for free using specialized SmarTrip cards. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44707&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><img alt="bluedivide3" class="govd_template_image" height="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/01/5369684/bluedivide_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 387px;" width="387" /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Images/flash/FLASH-map.png" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="flashus29map" class="govd_template_image" height="516" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8956829/5247170/flashus29_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 399px;" width="399" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>US 29 Flash is One of the Most Popular Bus Routes</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Have you seen the articulated Flash buses on US 29 Columbia Pike/Colesville Road? These buses run between Downtown Silver Spring and Briggs Chaney, and extends to Burtonsville on weekdays, with stops in Four Corners and White Oak along the way. The County-operated bus line began in 2020 and offers fast, convenient service running every 15 minutes all day and more frequently during rush hour.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">US 29 Flash has been a popular option ranking as one of the County's most utilized bus routes. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Flash operates like light rail, stopping at each of the bus stops along a fixed route. Montgomery County has plans for 9 additional Flash corridors. These projects will transform mobility options by connecting riders to activity and employment centers. The service will also improve passenger transit mobility and bicycle and pedestrian improvements along the corridors, making it easier and safer to get to Flash stations.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Flash uses queue jumps and transit signal priority at select intersections to provide faster and more reliable service. Where possible, Flash will run in its own dedicated bus lanes to bypass traffic congestion. On the US 29 Flash corridor, MCDOT is currently assessing the route for dedicated bus lanes.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The stations are designed to make boarding vehicles easier, improving travel time and increasing transit equity. The unique modern stations will provide weather protection, pre-payment kiosks and real-time arrival information. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Learn more at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">ridetheflash.com</a>.</p><img alt="bluedivide3" class="govd_template_image" height="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/01/5369684/bluedivide_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 401px;" width="401" /><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">RIDERS LOVE FLASH</h1><img alt="MCDOT Valentines Love Flash bus" class="govd_template_image" height="299" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8932539/5242749/valentines-love-flash-bus_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 399px;" width="399" /><h3 class="page-header" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Celebrates Valentine’s Day with Decorated Buses and Social Media Contest</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">MCDOT is <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=40010&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">spreading the love</a> during the month of February with five US 29 Flash buses decorated with pink neon heart-shaped lights in honor of Valentine’s Day. In addition to the decorated buses, MCDOT is offering residents and riders a way to send love to their Valentines, and possibly win a prize package for two.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Through Wednesday, Feb. 14, residents and riders can repost a #LoveFlash Valentine to a friend on social media and tag both their valentine and @MCDOTNow for a chance to win two $50 Visa gift cards -- one for the sender, and one for their Valentine. Since Thursday, Feb. 1, #LoveFlash Valentines have been posted on <a href="http://www.ridetheflash.com/" style="color: #1d5782;">RidetheFlash.com</a> and on the @MCDOTNow <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="color: #1d5782;">X</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow" style="color: #1d5782;">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" style="color: #1d5782;">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.threads.net/@mcdotnow" style="color: #1d5782;">Threads</a> social media channels.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The winning entry will be drawn at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 14 and announced on the @MCDOTNow social media channels at 5 p.m. The sender and the person they tagged each will win an electronic Visa gift card. Full contest rules can be found on <a href="http://www.ridetheflash.com/" style="color: #1d5782;">RidetheFlash.com</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">On Valentine’s Day MCDOT outreach teams will visit Flash bus stops along the US 29 corridor to pass out sweet treats to riders and bus operators. Look out for us at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Silver+Spring+Transit+Center+Station/@38.994042,-77.030029,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xf9f032f3deabb6f2?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjk95ry1JmEAxUjk2oFHQhDDfUQ_BJ6BAgREAA" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Silver Spring</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Capital+Bikeshare:+White+Oak+Transit+Center/@39.0406422,-76.9898672,15.8z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c5a1d9061869:0x33a779d0646a434e!8m2!3d39.0410401!4d-76.987125!16s%2Fg%2F11j64_6lv2?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">White Oak</a> transit centers.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">At full capacity, each articulated Flash bus can transport up to 90 passengers lightening resident’s carbon footprint, easing traffic congestion and making travel faster and easier. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">“The Flash buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach some of Montgomery County’s most popular destinations on Valentine’s Day or anytime,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “We hope the decorated buses and engagement, online or in person, will encourage our community to try a Flash bus for their next trip along US 29 and learn more about our plans for future Flash corridors. We’re building a Flash network that will better connect riders throughout the County with faster, more convenient service." </p><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">HERE'S WHAT RIDERS ARE SAYING:</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="riderfeedbackflash" class="govd_template_image" height="414" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7147125/quote-crop_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 330px;" width="330" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="bluedivide3" class="govd_template_image" height="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/01/5369684/bluedivide_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">TRANSIT EQUITY</h1><img alt="transiteqscr" class="govd_template_image" height="123" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7149665/4573516/transeqdayscroller2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 401px;" width="401" /><h3 class="page-header" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Honors Rosa Parks’ Birthday and ‘Transit Equity’ Throughout February</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Look out for posters on Ride On buses throughout February commemorating civil rights activist Rosa Parks and her impact on transit equity. The posters have a QR code directing people to the MCDOT <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90L3Byb2plY3RzL3RyYW5zaXRlcXVpdHkuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMDIuODk1OTM5MTEifQ.jq_7LwAlUF3ocgW0YCipTiV5JC5bFyd9JsVcsmcsCzs%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F236494943412-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C02f2026dba4544d363fa08dc243775ed%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638425067836452684%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=1rHY6dYZv5mLf7Wl%2FoQAhJ5r2Y%2FMOdzYUT6DY1pxalY%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Transit Equity Day website</a>. The website features information about the historical and cultural significance of Transit Equity Day and rider video testimonials on the importance of transportation access as a civil right. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Transit Equity Day is observed annually on Rosa Parks’ birthday, Feb. 4, to promote public transit as a civil right and a strategy to combat climate change. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">MCDOT is currently operating 14 zero-emission buses, with a contract to purchase 100 more within three years. The zero-emission buses are part of the County’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvY2xpbWF0ZS9pbmRleC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIwMi44OTU5MzkxMSJ9.ERDefHWqdRWvR7xiUxCI5PSZydb-OOUdw-gd_eXX1KQ%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F236494943412-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C02f2026dba4544d363fa08dc243775ed%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638425067836458892%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9btqq5TyDEz2MeOWuDYrIKneyHkme%2FpdqIpFjf6%2B2yg%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Climate Action Plan</a> to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from County transit by 2035. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Transit Equity Day is part of a larger recognition of the contributions of Black Americans. During Black History Month MCDOT will post a series on historical Black figures who contributed to the transportation system we know today on social media platforms and the website.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Montgomery County will recognize Black employees making history today through their work, leadership and public service throughout the month on the County’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vdHdpdHRlci5jb20vTW9udGdvbWVyeUNvTUQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjAyLjg5NTkzOTExIn0.CayT81yoxzjEjuVYEpZyaG6jjgd1QxOJFrcUvyjOeKE%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F236494943412-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C02f2026dba4544d363fa08dc243775ed%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638425067836465370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=P5GwKfaO6L3S5gaFcTJVDZNbRWKBB2Y3GRjn5mJ%2B%2FNc%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">X</a> and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZhY2Vib29rLmNvbS9tb250Z29tZXJ5Y291bnR5aW5mby8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjAyLjg5NTkzOTExIn0.19nPHaH-U0y_YTBBzN8L1qdETKJJ7SoyKuvpbjy5CKQ%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F236494943412-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C02f2026dba4544d363fa08dc243775ed%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638425067836471409%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=TSazWUjcnDRqCR6TFVRwavXYRT16ho2X3ZovFThFjyI%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> social media channels. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44722&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><img alt="bluedivide3" class="govd_template_image" height="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/01/5369684/bluedivide_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 401px;" width="401" /><img alt="BlackHistoryMonth24" class="govd_template_image" height="224" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947306/5242562/bhm-23_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Celebrates Black History Month</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Look out for @MCDOTNow social media posts celebrating Black inventors and engineers who have positively impacted the way we travel today.</p><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_text"><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;"><strong>Garrett Morgan</strong><br />Invented the first 3-light traffic signals in 1923, leading to the “yellow light” as a caution to drivers of an upcoming stop.</p></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; padding-left: 3px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="127"><img alt="garrettmorganblackhistorymonth" class="govd_template_image" height="127" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947369/garrettmorgan_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; width: 127px;" width="127" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="divider-blue" class="govd_template_image" height="24" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5539252/5242722/divider-213_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_text"><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;"><strong>Isaac R. Johnson</strong><br />Invented an innovative bicycle frame in 1899, that could be taken apart to allow for easy storage in small places. </p></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; padding-left: 3px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="127"><img alt="IsaacBlack Historymonth" class="govd_template_image" height="132" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947335/isaacmbhm_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; width: 127px;" width="127" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="divider-blue" class="govd_template_image" height="24" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5539252/5242722/divider-213_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_text"><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;"><strong>Meredith Gourdine</strong><br />Invented an exhaust purification system for vehicles, now known as the catalytic converter, in 1967 that reduces harmful carbon emissions released into the air.</p></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; padding-left: 3px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="127"><img alt="Meredith Gourdineblackhistorymonth" class="govd_template_image" height="173" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947395/meredith-gourdineblackhistorymonth_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; width: 127px;" width="127" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="bluedivide3" class="govd_template_image" height="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/01/5369684/bluedivide_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /><h1 style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">FLASH FLYERS</h1><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/BRT/Resources/Files/FLASH_GEN_Factsheet_FINAL_062723.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="flashflyer" class="govd_template_image" height="497" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947298/flashflyer_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="flashstationus29" class="govd_template_image" height="138" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7149385/5242566/flashstation_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 387px;" width="387" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/BRT/Resources/Files/FLASH_SENIOR_Factsheet_081123_no%20crop.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="flashfactflyersen" class="govd_template_image" height="516" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8961681/5246903/flash-senior-factsheet-081123-no-crop-page-1_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 399px;" width="399" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="flashbanner" class="govd_template_image" height="203" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2020/10/3794899/5246904/gomo_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 399px;" width="399" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">For the most up-to-date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/rideonmct" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/rideonmct" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">YouTube</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rideonmct/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. In addition, information is available at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">RideOnBus.com</a>, by <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">subscribing</a> to receive email alerts, or by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. </p></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erayF0-f9qU" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="howtorideflash" class="govd_template_image" height="103" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947114/5242567/rideflashvideo_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Ready to Ride the Flash on US 29? </h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The above video describes the features and amenities of the US 29 Flash service. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Did you know? One Flash vehicle can take up to 90 cars off the road.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="presidentdayflash" class="govd_template_image" height="131" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7149242/4573386/presdayflash_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 183px;" width="183" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Transportation Schedule for Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 19</h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5;"><li>County Offices - Closed.</li><li>Ride On, extRa and Flex - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/SpecialHoliday.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Holiday</a> schedule.</li><li>Ride On Flash Orange Line - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/SpecialHoliday.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Holiday</a> schedule. </li><li>TRiPS <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Commuter Store</a> at Silver Spring Transit Center - Open 10 a.m.-<br />4 p.m.</li><li>TRiPS <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Mobile Commuter Store</a> - Closed.</li><li>Public Parking in Garages and Lots in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/faq/holidays.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Free</a>.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="superbowl2024" class="govd_template_image" height="186" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8947513/5242570/drunk-driving-super-bowl-designated-drivers_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Super Bowl is Sunday, Feb. 11 – Don’t Drink and Drive</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Download the Ride On Trip Planner App for regional public transit trip planning <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">All County run buses have $1 fare.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="ridersonrideonbus" class="govd_template_image" height="131" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/05/7607039/5245239/ridersonbus_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Ridership is Rising</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">This past December ridership was up 37% from last year.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">The average weekday ridership for the month of December 2023 was nearly 54k which is a 37% increase over December 2022 when ridership was 39k. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="bikesonflash" class="govd_template_image" height="180" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8961639/5246926/flash-bikesrollin5_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Wheels are Welcome</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Flash <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/wheels.html" style="color: #1d5782;">provides full accessibility</a> for wheelchairs, persons with disabilities, strollers, bikes and carts. Wheelchairs should enter through the front door. Bikes should be walked on through the backdoor and easily secured.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fS9ek61KmxI" style="color: #1d5782;">this video</a> on how to board on wheels and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz0wmQj4fO8" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">this video</a> on how to board with your bike.</p><img alt="bikeonflash4" class="govd_template_image" height="207" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8961447/5248002/bikeonflash_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="wearehiring" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5808004/4071165/nowhiring5_crop.gif" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT is Hiring Bus Operators</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">MCDOT is looking for dynamic individuals with a passion for public service, at any stage of their career. No experience is necessary. Benefits include:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5;"><li>Competitive Starting Salary</li><li>Paid Commercial Driver’s License Training</li><li>Paid Holidays, Annual and Sick Leave</li><li>Retirement Benefits</li><li>Health Insurance</li><li>Ongoing Professional Development </li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Learn more and apply at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/jobs.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">rideonbus.com/jobs</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/flash/LoveFlash.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="wifiloveflash" class="govd_template_image" height="186" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8948342/5242573/loveflashwifi_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="tagmembers" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8948307/5242574/tagmembers_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 197px;" width="197" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Transit Advisory Group (TAG) is Recruiting Riders With Disabilities, Bilingual Adults and High School Students</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Ride On is seeking applications from high school students, riders with disabilities and bilingual adults who wish to be selected as a TAG member. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">TAG members receive monthly updates on Ride On events and news and meet with Ride On management staff three times a year so they can voice their opinions and give feedback on Ride On bus services. Students can earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Those interested can apply online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/transit-advisory-group/index.html" style="color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.facebook.com/reel/409257104961372" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="riderinterview4" class="govd_template_image" height="333" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8948216/rideonridersinterview_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Interviews Bus Riders on Transit Equity</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Watch interviews online <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYRGEtzrcc0&list=PLezh4UvlHMX9bSdp-r-mmfqZXLKhC-jfH&index=3" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="seniorsmarttrip" class="govd_template_image" height="171" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/07/4761019/5199874/seniorsridecard_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro Eliminates $2 SmarTrip Card Fee for Seniors 65+</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">As of Tuesday, Jan. 16, Metro has been offering <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/senior-smartrip.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Senior SmarTrip</a> cards at no cost to customers aged 65 and older. With the card, seniors can ride all County buses and most Metro buses within the County for free.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Senior SmarTrip cards are available at all Montgomery County <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/library/branches/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">libraries</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">TRiPS stores</a>, and the County <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Montgomery+County+Treasury/@39.0837484,-77.1521604,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xc80d169304fa6826?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwibx8306eSDAxUdIUQIHQCUCz0Q_BJ6BAhTEAA" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Treasury office</a> in Rockville. Please bring a valid government issues ID.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="ridethebusrideon" class="govd_template_image" height="120" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2024/02/8956990/5245240/rideonbus4_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h2 class="page-header" style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Warm Rides, Cool Destinations: Explore Montgomery County with Ride On This Winter</h2><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Winter is underway and Ride On is here to help you explore Montgomery County this season! <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44688&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about the places you can go for recreation in Montgomery County.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank"><img alt="mc311small4" class="govd_template_image" height="131" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2016/02/763382/mc3113sm_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Lose Something on the Flash Bus or Want to Give Feedback?</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 1em;">Contact MC311 by calling 311 (or 240-777-0311or online at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/ 311</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif"); background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; border-collapse: collapse; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-79650928571905043312024-02-08T10:39:00.004-05:002024-02-08T10:43:20.350-05:00A Ride On Guide to Montgomery County Libraries<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNRPPsoIaKNSFnMR3Wgl9aGlttzHstyHUO6IgKyCczrp8r2kSUkxZe4mToXMwf2R_HJWp-kFkFmFdVR5pUxOK8nyiOXrAR1gE_VkSR3p401huEU2mJ-lCxIEYka7CJowMnN91PN58EpewdNhG7e74L68gpoVdqS5-xYb1sUcDFS4XihWXsae1Dzf6FEs/s1765/IMG_938844.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1146" data-original-width="1765" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNRPPsoIaKNSFnMR3Wgl9aGlttzHstyHUO6IgKyCczrp8r2kSUkxZe4mToXMwf2R_HJWp-kFkFmFdVR5pUxOK8nyiOXrAR1gE_VkSR3p401huEU2mJ-lCxIEYka7CJowMnN91PN58EpewdNhG7e74L68gpoVdqS5-xYb1sUcDFS4XihWXsae1Dzf6FEs/w640-h416/IMG_938844.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">As the weather gets colder and outside
activities are no longer plentiful, Montgomery County residents look for other
sources of entertainment to get them through the darker days. Luckily, the
County has 21 public library locations, ensuring there's always a public
library near you! Everyone knows libraries are a great place to read, but our
County libraries also include a variety of internal activities, attached
community centers, and so much more. </span></p><p style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">If you and your family need to
get out of the house while still staying toasty warm indoors, Ride On is ready
to help get you there. Read below for a selection of the area's public
libraries and which Ride On routes you can take. Before you go, visit <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbWNwbC5saWJuZXQuaW5mby9ldmVudHM_cj10b2RheSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMTEuODgzNjE4NjEifQ.k2jjkYHAxw4h7utLW7gzrYYMPZtTH7Qlo4Bhxy5TrhA%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XctPIDn3NvGAkensWqjQ2Byp22NtalSJQBWC8qYs%2BRU%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">mcpl.libnet.info/events?r=today</span></a> to
find an event that meets your family's needs.<u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/noyes.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Noyes Library for Young
Children</span></strong></a><strong>:</strong> Young
children realize immediately that this charming one-room library in Kensington
is just for them. Noyes offers books and programs specifically for early
childhood, along with a comfortable space for babies, toddlers and preschoolers
to read and play. To get to this branch, take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAwNC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.2brp_OA_YNRjCfAU8QsZbDKp2GUiuLsXFo2Pg_4sqxQ%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tqhUyW6OXGqR6svWEyyLRG47nPARnGDINc4unBCZqck%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">4</span></a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAzMy5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.SB0wO7kOLPekg7ozEY-JA9v-neUhl5I2QQeC5nfJwg4%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Nd6oqd3cfbUouD3TG%2F%2FdH%2BQ%2FYHw3S6zfI0Z2kHY%2Fggg%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">33</span></a>.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/rockville.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Rockville Memorial
Library:</span></strong></a><strong> </strong>Located
in Rockville Town Square, this library offers all the programs and services
library patrons have come to depend on in a convenient location. Stop in for a
book or periodical while running errands or picking up dinner. To get to
this branch, take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA0NS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.DzhDK_J6ozWwy0H3ZQame9jhp9cWkI_h8GOoq6USeJA%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qLvE8SBW6o%2FmgZE8befqOMG5PpV6zcEOxnBByxQlp7k%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">45</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA0Ni5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.0Gs2W8WCbWLcFWZuglYk5SA581JhT5_X6QyagBuL3tU%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FzrJyTXKfFoAna9OpNuvxyIxdK5PkPVVpBHVbHwrdlQ%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">46</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1NS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.rX1KdFo84BpxAK20EH8hNed9i2Ab6JLeuMfAOZ941G4%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xgM9j1YuyVNq3KSC8mXpOvTG%2F3FdUhUxhB3wqyTBw0A%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">55</span></a>,
or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9Sb3V0ZTMwMS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.WNm3r-Mi1C9s7w7xDpzXYF4sVTIoJsRNUEpZTHVwL4A%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844746478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4euY%2BSwlC9s0CIgDohI4VwMiddc5WVLMeG5hm7AiJHs%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">301</span></a>.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/WhiteOak.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">White Oak Library:</span></strong></a> Visit
the White Oak branch of the Montgomery County Public Library in East County off
New Hampshire Avenue. Programs cover a range of ages and interests, including
story times, finance and investing seminars, and Tai Chi and Qigong
classes. To get to this branch, take Ride On Route <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAyMS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.LjDluWlblAKqF9sVsOAGPxQk6brlQbBYY_5qJ5L0WQI%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=R7RAlqJMlW1TxQVjSMA1L1pMr4L94Fw9nZcjmNhTIZ8%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">21</span></a>.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/damascus.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Damascus Library:</span></a> </span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Our
northernmost library location, Damascus Library can be found right in the
center of town. Programs at this location include games and crafts for teens,
computer help and repair, and weekly bluegrass music jam sessions. To get
to this branch, take Ride On Route <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA5MC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.vIthjBHPZGFqfD-YeEGPK2q2CshSIoGwijXNEFvm7TA%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FL0ZjzMhtxpMOnHWA8cBL1ELsmI7qV1Jgd8lEKs1%2B4Y%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">90</span></a>.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/Wheaton.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Wheaton Library:</span></strong></a><strong> </strong>Located off of
Georgia Avenue in Wheaton, Wheaton Public Library is a destination for the
whole family. The jointly housed Wheaton Community Rec Center includes
activities ranging from sports, fitness, dance, music and art, while the
outdoor playground is a draw for children on a rare warm winter day. An
incredibly unique feature is an indoor track for walking or running. To get to
this branch, take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAwOS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.B-5qmlslMvtIYt-1JrmU_NbEdYaAUcjeew4YhkNoHrQ%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=JIXM7pWX%2FNwNFK9niXS6Lwu2Wy02EWa1bH9WYFrH3Uw%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">9</span></a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAzMS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.ocI_k0WxtuWDjiV_bH4VASoXcjepyPAA6pbcy6YkM7w%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=GtJvGcPfQTPzj8GQfMtzK%2FWAtfxi%2F1HAQregZkCGbFs%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">31</span></a>.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/gaithersburg.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Gaithersburg Library:</span></strong></a><strong> </strong>The Gaithersburg
branch has something for everyone when it comes to its programs. Attend a pro
bono legal clinic, participate in the Intergenerational Graphic Novel Book
Club, or join an English Conversation club. The <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/gilchrist/" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Charles W. Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center</span></a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/offices/advancement-and-community-engagement/community-engagement/index.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Montgomery College
Community Engagement Center</span></a> are also located on the second
floor. To get to this branch, take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1NS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.PTr7b3gu67e6wywbvWX79BeRpNJHN3RYc1thvV7KRvA%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qOjvj26WlsxlVExPTgsj4GqkiknQNvwCDPZ%2BUOldoyA%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">55</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1Ni5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.lsD52rfWspIVjQ8RRrtrEudr-cS639F_YNiP85ePiDk%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Yetc8vZmdX%2Fwqh8j9xiVGLiOHEi3Mxa753EsSunPP0Y%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">56</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1OC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.KyKlb0B70qNmA91iSN56S6_DKRjsPl8Rq01Tvdiwvi0%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gNU6izIsBqn1NxtEOmmDuyid7Ns2%2FKKeUy2%2BU%2ByGTJk%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">58</span></a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1OS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.0T7-m_5vfviwE_VF2fmFdaa2IPLYz3QI9uo8GM4lEcI%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2B7AtqcV%2F95QF1F2LZszxJtRwCekSLVRVdhGNvyYXihI%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">59</span></a>.<br />
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<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/LittleFalls.html" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Little Falls Library:</span></strong></a> Tucked
deep into the neighborhoods of Bethesda, the Little Falls Public Library is our
southernmost branch. This location features tons of programming for children,
including story times, play hours, and a weekly Mandarin Chinese lesson for
children ages 5-10. To get to this branch, take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAyMy5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.cCgIVxMsGYj9FEqbTMvkIV3Bwllx9491tjS5cnu1LEQ%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825844903251%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=APTnKDNxkdfiL2M7NvMkY9QUSXGq4b3z2%2FRKXcJq8Tg%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">23</span></a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAyOS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDExMS44ODM2MTg2MSJ9.RJ2mKfU0Ye9zXb3QAr2n37xJjunzJyPyvcRO-RWwx9U%2Fs%2F3094916877%2Fbr%2F234745360630-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C794bb7018d57488d095008dc12b7557f%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638405825845058997%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4TD1skvqBvdM3N3Wk8L8IN31paWRx3IekpnastwvakA%3D&reserved=0" style="text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">29</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Ride On </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-transit/fares/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">bus fare is only $1</span></a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"> and monthly passes are $22.50 using SmarTrip,
cash, or tokens. </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/senior-smartrip.html" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Seniors
age 65 or older, persons with disabilities</span></a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"> and </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/kidsridefree/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">youth
ages 18 and under</span></a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"> all ride free
using specialized SmarTrip cards.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Riders can plan trips online
using the free <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Ride
On Trip Planner App</span></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For the most up-to-date service
information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">X</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsfV-Du4y5TlZF8v0Mm4Mmg" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">YouTube.</span></a> In
addition, information is available at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">rideonbus.com</span></a>,
by <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribing</span></a> to
receive email alerts, or by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text
alerts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 10px;">
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</p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For information on MCDOT programs
and services visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</span></a>,
follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">X</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribe</span></a> to
MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter. <span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-29977675703733244752024-01-11T14:56:00.003-05:002024-01-11T15:01:34.003-05:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! SNOW EDITION Newsletter<p><br /></p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;"></span><div class="bulletin_body" id="bulletin_body" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td background="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/bulletins/%7B%22image_url%22=%3E%22http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png%22,%20%22image_id%22=%3E184777,%20%22image_name%22=%3E%22noise%20background%22,%20%22repeat%22=%3E%22repeat%22,%20%22str%22=%3E%22background-image:%20url(http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png);background-repeat:%20repeat;%22,%20%22image_height%22=%3E118%7D" bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #e3f2ff; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png") repeat rgb(227, 242, 255); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; width: 700px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="snowgomo222" class="govd_template_image" height="142" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7053076/4539990/snow2-gomo2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><img alt="snowplowsmcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="246" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2020/12/3958094/3330479/snow-pics-2014-003_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 394px;" width="394" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>County Storm Response Based on Forecast</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">County storm responders begin their job well before snow is predicted to fall. MCDOT Highway Services staff track weather reports days in advance to determine if and when the MCDOT Storm Operations Center should be activated. Snow plow crews at each depot are called to report in advance of a storm and if conditions are right, they may begin pretreating major roads with salt brine, a solution of salt and water.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Salt brine prevents ice and frost from forming on pavement and makes snow removal easier. The use of salt brine also reduces the amount of salt needed to treat pavement following a snowfall.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Use of salt and salt brine is only done in specific conditions to ensure that excessive salt does not end up in local waterways. Often when rain is predicted, threatening to wash away treatment, salt will be withheld. Salt bine is applied when the storm is predicted to begin as snow or ice.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">At the start of a storm, storm patrols monitor road conditions and measure pavement temperatures around the County. This information is consistently reported to the SOC to ensure treatments are used only where needed.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">If snow or freezing precipitation begins to cover the roads, and conditions are right, crews will spread salt on emergency and primary routes.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Plows are ineffective until snowfall accumulations reach about three inches. At that point, Highway Services starts plowing operations and continues salting, focusing on main roads and transit routes. During the snowfall, about 1,000 lane miles of main roads are kept in “bare pavement” condition. This ensures that every County resident is within one-half mile of a cleared road and can be reached by emergency services. It also means that when residents leave their neighborhoods, the main roads are ready to handle traffic.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Once the snow stops falling and major roads are clear, crews turn their attention to removing snow from more than 4,300 miles of neighborhood streets. Their goal is to make these streets passable – not clear them to bare pavement. Crews eat and sleep at the depots and do not go home until snow removal operations are completed.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT has 200 Highway Services employees and 175 pieces of equipment to handle snow operations. If more resources are needed, contractors can be called upon immediately to provide hundreds of additional plows and operators. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">During a snowstorm, residents can get the latest updates by visiting the County's <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/snow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Snow Portal</a> website.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="besaltwise5" class="govd_template_image" height="238" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7047602/5186737/salteng_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County and WSSC Water Urges Everyone to be ‘Salt Wise’ and Use Less Salt During Winter Storms to Reduce the Impact on the Environment and Drinking Water</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), MCDOT and WSSC Water held a media event at the Rockville salt barn earlier this month urging homeowners to be “Salt Wise” and use less salt on sidewalks and driveways during winter storms.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Salt runs off into storm drains, local streams, and eventually, to the Potomac and Patuxent rivers which are drinking water sources for residents in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. Salt can corrode concrete and masonry, harm pets, damage surrounding plants and lawns, and adversely impact the water supply. Salt levels have been steadily increasing in local streams. Once salt gets into waterways, it does not go away.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Find out what steps MCDOT is taking in their storm response to reduce salt usage and how <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44570&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">residents can help</a>. <strong><br /></strong></p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="rideonbusshelterplowed" class="govd_template_image" height="202" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7052139/4539858/new-hampshire-randolph-and-glenmont-222_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 179px;" width="179" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Ride On Bus Service During Winter Storms</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Need to go out during a storm? Ride On buses run during most weather events and are on primary routes that are given priority by plows. Ride On bus drivers are well trained and take the hassle out of driving in a storm.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Buses generally run regular service if snow is under 4 inches.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">At 4 inches, the MCDOT Director, Chris Conklin, together with the County Executive, decide if buses will operate on an <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-Transit%2FResources%2FFiles%2Fschedules%2Fplan-s%2Fplan-s-english.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272405348%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ATKqQDnPzrjM1DjUJcuQBweWKKoiD6DDopru6wAtQxg%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">S (Special) Service Plan</a>. This is a reduced schedule in terms of the number of routes, span and frequency of service. If the snow is over 8 inches, the service may be reduced further.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">During a snow event, Ride On contractors clear nearly 800 bus stops and work to keep transit centers clear of snow and ice. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Follow Ride On @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FRideOnMCT&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272405348%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XSA4piKivr%2FyUAcyqesSZ0WJ6v4S5ihITX%2FZ8EPGPFU%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRideOnMCT&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272405348%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=diRogCF3n3CB3%2F7ktvRKud3NZsvi0Zqs7cu9p0cEN7g%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Facebook</a> for service announcements related to the weather.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="painttheplow2023winners" class="govd_template_image" height="457" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776805/5184862/painttheplow23_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Look out for MCDOT's Painted Snowplows</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT held its second Paint the Plow Middle School Snowplow Naming Contest this past May, in honor of “Public Works Week.” </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The contest is free for schools and is a unique and fun way to introduce middle school students to some of the work done by MCDOT. The decorated plows are a part of MCDOT’s snow-clearing fleet and are used in neighborhoods the following winter.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The contest will run again this spring. Last year’s winners can be seen online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/PaintThePlow/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><img alt="dontcrowdplow46" class="govd_template_image" height="222" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048720/4539266/mcdotdontcrowdtheplow_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 395px;" width="395" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="saltbarn-plows" class="govd_template_image" height="222" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7047621/sanderfilling_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 395px;" width="395" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Snow Removal Operations</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The MCDOT Storm Operations Center activates for all major winter storms to track the storm and deploy an emergency response.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Information from 311 and 911 is passed onto the depot staff and makes its way to the plow operators. Staff also tracks the storm and provides updated reports to other County agencies. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT Highway staff start tracking forecasted storms several days ahead of the event and develops a plan.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT is responsible for clearing snow from about 5,300 lane miles of County-maintained roads, 60 miles of sidewalks along County right-of-ways and three miles of bike paths and trails. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>E-scooters</strong>: </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT asks e-scooter companies to remove scooters before the snow begins to fall and return them once it is safe to do so.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="drivinginsnowweather" class="govd_template_image" height="201" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7061628/4542725/driving-in-snow444_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 179px;" width="179" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Winter Storm Reminders</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Drivers</strong>:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Avoid driving during storms if possible. If you have to travel, ride the bus. Ride On buses operate during most storms and are supported by emergency snowplows when needed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">If you have to drive, drive slowly. Stopping distances increase in poor weather conditions.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Equip your vehicle with snow tires or chains to reduce the risk of getting stuck, damaging your car, blocking traffic and snow removal equipment.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Stay alert for pedestrians walking in the roadways.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Be especially alert for pedestrians at intersections where snow mounds may limit sight lines.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">In advance of a storm, park vehicles in your driveway or as close to the curb as you can.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Fill your gas tank before the storm.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Charge your phone before you go, and have a car emergency kit including blankets, a flash light, extra warm clothing, an ice scraper, nonperishable snacks and water. </li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Pedestrians</strong>:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Wear bright, reflective clothing to ensure you will be seen.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Watch for icy and slick spots.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Wear shoes or boots with non-slip soles.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Keep animals and pets safe</strong>:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Pets should be kept indoors during periods of cold weather.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Provide livestock animals with a place to get out of the wind and dry bedding to protect them from frostbite.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The law prohibits endangering animals during unusually cold, windy or snowy weather. If an animal is outdoors and appears to be in danger, call 911 for emergency situations or the Police non-emergency number at 301-279-8000 for other animal-related issues.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="snowshoveltogether" class="govd_template_image" height="170" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7061679/snow-shoveling_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 179px;" width="179" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Clearing Sidewalks of Snow and Ice - If You Own Property, It's Your Responsibility</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">County residents are required by law to clear sidewalks in front of and alongside their properties within 24 hours of the end of a snowstorm. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Follow these tips:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Dress appropriately for winter weather. Ears, hands and feet need extra protection in frigid temperatures.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">If you can, shovel as the snow falls. It is easier to remove fresh snow that has not hardened or turned to ice.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Put less pressure on your back. Lift with legs bent to avoid injury and try pushing the snow instead of lifting it.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Pace yourself and take it slow. Shoveling can raise blood pressure and heart rate dramatically.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Do not work to the point of exhaustion. Take breaks. If you run out of breath or feel tightness in your chest, stop immediately.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Be a good neighbor. If you are able-bodied, offer to assist your neighbors who are not able to, or would have difficulty, shoveling.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For more information on shoveling <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/safesidewalks/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">click here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="snowflakestrans35" class="govd_template_image" height="117" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048459/free-snowflake-clipart-snow-9_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 394px;" width="394" /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="snowwhomaintains" class="govd_template_image" height="176" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2017/11/1663526/4539854/check_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 176px;" width="176" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Who Plows Where?</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT plows County-maintained roadways, public parking garages and lots located in downtown <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Bethesda</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Silver Spring</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Wheaton</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Other agencies that handle snow removal and laying salt include:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DGS/Home.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Montgomery County Department of General Services</a> clears and salts County building lots, such as libraries.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/index.aspx?pageid=519" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Maryland State Highway Administration</a> is responsible for all state roads. These are typically numbered such as Rockville Pike (MD 355) and Georgia Ave. (MD 97), New Hampshire Ave. (MD 650) and River Road (MD 190).<br />Report issues on state roads <a href="https://marylandsha.secure.force.com/customercare/request_for_service" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">online</a> or call 800-543-2515 or 410-582-5650.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://montgomeryparks.org/about/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Montgomery Parks</a> clears snow on roads, bridges and trails within local parks.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/stayconnected/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Montgomery County Public Schools</a> clears and salts sidewalks and parking lots on school property.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/weather/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">WMATA</a> clears and salts Metro stations and parking lots. </li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For any plowing requests or to report excess salt for cleanup, residents can call Montgomery County’s Customer Service Center by dialing 311 (or calling 240-777-0311 if outside the County). Residents can also visit the website at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fmc311%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272247973%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pfjEcCncD9g1Qe6QXrAg9yiFCfFVWN%2B4iJEV8dYjmcQ%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">montgomerycountymd.gov/311</a>. 311 Operators will route requests to the responsible agency.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="snowemergencyroutemc" class="govd_template_image" height="226" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7061660/4542726/snowroutesigns_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 177px;" width="177" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Information on Snow Emergency Routes</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Both the State of Maryland and Montgomery County have designated certain roads as <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fsnow%2Fsnow-routetypes.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272405348%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Yzb3L0p0%2Bfbxx%2BXDgSgQPitlgIYz1o5P4Sn5oD%2Fe2oc%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Snow Emergency Routes</a> prominently marked with red and white signs. When the State and/or County initiates its snow emergency plan, it is illegal to park on these designated roads.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Vehicles found blocking snow routes during an emergency may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. State and County snow emergency plans may not be put into effect simultaneously.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="parkingsidewalksnow" class="govd_template_image" height="238" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/12/3025775/sidewalks_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 178px;" width="178" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>During Snowstorms, When is Parking Free in County Garages?</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">During a County Executive-declared snow emergency in Montgomery County, the MCDOT Director may announce that <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/InclementWeather.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">parking</a> is free in County-owned garages and lots for the duration of the snow emergency. This helps get cars off the roads to aid plowing operations and overall safety.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For on-street meters along non-snow emergency roadways, regular parking rates will continue to be charged. For any parking-related questions email <a href="mailto:Parking@montgomerycountymd.gov?subject=Inclement%20Weather" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">parking@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcdotphotos/albums/72157717331407707" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="winter-rideonandplows" class="govd_template_image" height="211" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7052023/4542830/rideonplow_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><h3 align="center" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a></h3><img alt="snowflakestrans35" class="govd_template_image" height="117" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048459/free-snowflake-clipart-snow-9_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 394px;" width="394" /></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">JANUARY 2024</h3><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="mcdotsocialwinter" class="govd_template_image" height="155" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6873774/4480976/mcdotsocialwinter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 190px;" width="190" /></a><p align="center" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Follow snow removal progress by visiting MCDOT’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/snow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Snow Portal</a> or follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</p><p align="center" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span class="ui-provider bjo bjp c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t bjq bjr w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr">Tag @MCDOTNow in your snowstorm-related photos. </span></p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="snowportal" class="govd_template_image" height="96" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2016/12/1127762/4539291/snowportal_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 190px;" width="190" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Be in the Know During Storms</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents can stay updated during storms by:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Visiting MCDOT's <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fsnow%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272091752%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=fPwhu9J7lnuvx6RCSIOGPtgZ67i92EKxR1yUBdnjJz0%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Snow Portal</a> website. </li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Signing up for <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmember.everbridge.net%2F1332612387832009%2Flogin&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272091752%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pv7sL%2BP%2Bmb4pSnxyfXsROk0ZB31MkVkEzi3yVnawn3w%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Alert Montgomery</a> for updates by email and text.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Following MCDOT on <a href="https://twitter.com/mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a>.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Watching <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ccm/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">County Cable Montgomery</a>, Channel 6 for RCN Comcast subscribers and Channel 30 for Verizon subscribers, provide continuous updates on roadway conditions and transit services.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="mcdotsnowvideos" class="govd_template_image" height="127" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048690/4539292/mcdotsnowvideos_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>View These One-Minute Videos to Answer the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Removal</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">These <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcdotphotos/albums/72177720304428527" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">informative videos</a> contain key information about what to expect during snowstorms. </p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg4sVpbbMNg&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">What MoCo Residents Should Know About Snow</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zISHNgmzous&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">How MCDOT Responds to Snow Events</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Ekcy_tejv8&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Reporting an Issue During a Snow Storm</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnjRDoyHgwI&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">In What Order are Streets Plowed?</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4Cru-bKXW4&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Parking During a Snow Storm</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoc49MEST2s&feature=youtu.be" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Sidewalk Snow Shoveling Requirements</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://mygreenmontgomery.org/2020/how-to-safely-apply-salt-in-the-winter/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">How to Safely Apply Salt in the Winter</a></li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="winter weathertips" class="govd_template_image" height="142" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048881/4539294/winter-weather20_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Service Requests</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The MC311 County informational call center can answer questions and handle requests for service like downed trees that may block a county road.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">You can reach MC311 by calling 311 in the County or 240-777-0311, 711 for MD Relay TTY , from anywhere, Monday - Friday 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Questions can also be asked or requests made of MC311 through their <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">website</a>. Often, MC311 will remain open for extended hours during periods of emergencies. Otherwise, residents can call the police non-emergency number 301-279-8000 or 911 if there is an emergency.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="dontcrowdplowmcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048142/4539295/snowplowsafety2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Please Use Caution Around Snowplows</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Don’t crowd the plow. The front plow extends several feet in front and may cross the centerline and shoulders.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Don't tailgate or follow too close behind a snowplow.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Don’t travel next to a plow, if possible. The packed snow or snowdrift can move the truck sideways.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Plows turn and exit the road frequently. Give them plenty of room.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="hypocoldalert" class="govd_template_image" height="102" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048860/4539298/euqwvbawqaqjpuv_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Learn More About How to Prevent Hypothermia</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The County’s updated <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OPI/alerts/hypothermia.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Hypothermia Alert webpage</a> has more information on steps to take before and during extreme temperature conditions.<em><strong> </strong></em></p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="weatheralert55959" class="govd_template_image" height="126" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7048883/4539299/web1-weather-alert_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Do You Know the Difference Between a Winter Weather Advisory, Watch or Warning?</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The National Weather Service <a href="https://www.weather.gov/lwx/WarningsDefined" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">issues winter alerts</a>. Know the difference between a warning, a watch and an advisory. </p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>WARNING</strong>: <em>Take Action.</em><br />A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span class="ui-provider bjo bjp c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t bjq bjr w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr"><strong>WATCH</strong>: <em>Be Prepared.</em><br />A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is the potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It signifies that significant and hazardous winter weather is possible.</span></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>ADVISORY</strong>: <em>Be Aware</em>.<br />A Winter Weather Advisory will be issued for any amount of freezing rain, or when 2 to 4 inches of snow (alone or in combination with sleet and freezing rain), is expected to cause a significant inconvenience, but not serious enough to warrant a warning.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="snowflake6" class="govd_template_image" height="201" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2018/11/2271177/snowflake_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 190px;" width="190" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Emergency Numbers</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The power utilities serving Montgomery County are Pepco, BG&E and Potomac Edison/First Energy. Each has a downloadable mobile app for reporting power outages. They also can be contacted by phone.</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.pepco.com/Outages/ReportAnOutage/Pages/default.aspx#:~:text=You%20can%E2%80%8B%20report%20your,%2D877%2D737%2D2662." style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">PEPCO</a>: 1-877-737-2662<u></u></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.bge.com/MyAccount/CustomerSupport/Pages/ContactUs.aspx" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">BGE</a>: 877-778-2222</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.firstenergycorp.com/outages_help/Report_Power_Outages.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Potomac Edison/First Energy</a>: 1-888-544-4877</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Water</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In case of water main breaks or other issues, contact the <a href="https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/report-problem" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission</a> at 301-206-4002 or email <a href="mailto:EmergencyCallCenter@wsscwater.com" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">EmergencyCallCenter@</a><br /><a href="mailto:EmergencyCallCenter@wsscwater.com" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">wsscwater.com</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Recycling and Trash Collection</strong> </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For updated information about the collection schedule during snow storms, <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONT/subscriber/new?" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">sign up for email or text updates</a>, or follow <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/sws/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Solid Waste</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/MyGreenMC" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Down Trees</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Report downed trees on the public right-of-way by contacting the County's Call Center by calling 311 or <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">online</a>. If downed wires are sparking, call 911.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Police</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs/about/911.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Emergency</a>: 911<br /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OPI/make_right_call.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Non-Emergency</a>: 301-279-8000</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents are asked to call 911 only in a true emergency, such as downed live power lines. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCPS Schools</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Call: 240-740-3000<br />Spanish Hotline: 240-740-2845 (Línea Informativa en Español) or email <a href="mailto:askmcps@mcpsmd.org" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">askmcps@</a><br /><a href="mailto:askmcps@mcpsmd.org" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">mcpsmd.org</a>.<a href="mailto:askmcps@mcpsmd.org" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"></a></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>WMATA</strong><strong> </strong>(Metro Services)</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Call 202-637-7000, visit <a href="https://www.wmata.com/alerts" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">wmata.com/alerts</a> or follow on <a href="https://twitter.com/wmata" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a> for <a href="https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/weather/bus/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Metrobus</a> and <a href="https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/weather/rail.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Metrorail</a> service.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MDOT MTA</strong> (Maryland Transit Administration)</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Call 410-539-5000, visit <a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/contact-mta" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">mta.maryland.gov/contact-mta</a> or follow on <a href="https://twitter.com/mtamaryland" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">X</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.984px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif") repeat-x; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 539.05px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-27163226355734746422023-12-14T13:30:00.013-05:002023-12-14T13:56:37.178-05:00Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter for DECEMBER 2023<div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175583" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#E3F2FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-070bd15b-4fab-4460-b90d-b254ed807e83"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175584" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-72f5ea85-194b-4513-b277-6a5c9fc07534" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; 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color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-69bd8185-cde1-4747-9dd2-df5031f18110" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175587" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-03d54ee9-9eca-44cd-972c-72c623ecf270" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-03d54ee9-9eca-44cd-972c-72c623ecf270-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="NewGoMobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8642243/newgomobanner_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 600px;" width="600" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175589" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0c71ddc0-bc9c-4b99-8701-afc401ad59e3" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175590" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-f459d175-68b8-44af-8988-30fdb324fad3" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-f459d175-68b8-44af-8988-30fdb324fad3-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="flashlightsbus3" class="govd_template_image" height="204" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6806267/img-2582_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175592" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-33f9f2e3-9919-44ac-a9c7-cbe957a79fcd" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175593" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0ed60b57-70dc-47ca-9bfb-c6896d8b1cec" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0ed60b57-70dc-47ca-9bfb-c6896d8b1cec-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Announces the Return of Decorated Winter Holiday 'Flash Lights' Buses</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is returning “Flash Lights” buses for the winter holiday season. Montgomery County residents and visitors can take in the roaming light display along Colesville Road/US 29 as five of the Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) buses have been adorned with festive holiday lights. The buses will remain decorated throughout December.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Riders are encouraged to post pictures of the Flash Lights buses on <a href="http://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.threads.net/@mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Threads</a> or <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Instagram</a> accounts and tag @MCDOTNow for a chance to win a $25 gift card. One winner will be randomly selected from all participants in a weekly drawing, beginning Monday, Dec. 4 through Friday, Jan. 5. Full details for the contest can be found on <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">RidetheFlash.com</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The decorated Flash buses are running along Colesville Rd/Columbia Pike (US 29) between the Silver Spring Transit Center, Briggs Chaney and Burtonsville, with stops along the way. The County-operated bus line began in 2020 and offers fast, convenient service running every seven to 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Fares on Ride On for most riders is only $1 per ride. <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/senior-smartrip.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Seniors</a> (age 65 and older), <a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/accessibility/metro-access/upload/MetroRFP_Accessible-Application.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">persons with disabilities</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/youth-cruiser.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">youth</a> under 19 ride free with specialized SmarTrip cards. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44450&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><img alt="universityredmarkingsbuslanes" class="govd_template_image" height="143" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8680281/5146468/img-007166789_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Adds Dedicated Bus Lanes on University Boulevard (MD 193) in Wheaton</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT has started lane painting between Amherst Avenue and Dennis Avenue and expects to complete the project in December. The dedicated bus lanes will provide faster Ride On and Metrobus service on this vital corridor, improving the connection between Four Corners and Metrorail at Wheaton Station.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The new bus lanes will allow for emergency vehicles and bicycles and are estimated to be complete in early January.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175595" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-6f0b582c-6c46-43c4-a8d5-e716330b607c" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #3d4c4b; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8641641/71x332sidewaysmcdot2_original.png") no-repeat rgb(61, 76, 75); box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-6f0b582c-6c46-43c4-a8d5-e716330b607c-padding" style="border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="rosaparks4" class="govd_template_image" height="146" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8677201/5146469/1_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Posts Placards on Ride On Buses to Honor Rosa Parks Day in December</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County recognizes Dec. 1 as Rosa Parks Day, honoring the American hero who refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama bus on Dec. 1, 1955. </p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">To honor Parks, MCDOT has <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44415&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">placed placards</a> inside all Ride On buses throughout December to commemorate her leadership, activism and bravery.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="thanksgiving2023" class="govd_template_image" height="136" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8680022/5146470/thanksgiving2023-sm_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT’s Flash Bus in Montgomery County's Thanksgiving Parade</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash enjoyed its sixth year in the parade, while the 2023 Flash Lights bus made its debut blowing snow for a winter wonderland.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175598" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-87ec942e-b39a-4be0-9d61-0beaba3abd0a" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175599" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-5eb53d8d-76bb-4c6c-8020-70d3cea8a086" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-5eb53d8d-76bb-4c6c-8020-70d3cea8a086-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="greatsenecagroundbreaking" class="govd_template_image" height="243" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8677223/5146471/greatsenecatransitgroundpainting1129230347-53364364_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175681" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-bd14ae34-3f9f-46be-8aa2-4890794968d2" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175682" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-dea1a329-73b0-4563-88b2-c96091ff14f1" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-dea1a329-73b0-4563-88b2-c96091ff14f1-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>The Great Seneca Transit Network Will Bring Fast, Equitable Access to Medical Centers and Educational Facilities in Rockville and Gaithersburg</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT announced the beginning of <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/GST/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Phase 1 of the Great Seneca Transit Network</a> (GSTN) at a ceremonial “groundpainting” of dedicated bus lanes at the Traville Parkway Transit Center in Rockville on Wednesday, Nov. 29.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Phase 1 of the GSTN will include two new <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/RideOnExtra.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Ride On extRa</a> bus service lines. The project will continue through spring, with service to begin in late summer 2024.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The two new bus lines, designated as “Lime” and “Pink,” will run east-west connections between the Shady Grove Metro to the Universities of Shady Grove in Rockville. The Pink line will link the busy Shady Grove corridor with the Life Sciences Center via Medical Center Drive. The Lime line will use I-370 to provide an express route to RIO, Crown Farm and the heart of the Life Science Center at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. Project implementation will continue through this spring, with service to begin in late summer 2024.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44393&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><img alt="saltwise" class="govd_template_image" height="208" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6878710/5146472/fihnl6rxoac6ck1_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Promotes ‘Salt Wise’ Campaign, Using Less Salt and Keeping People Safe During Winter Storms</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection and MCDOT are emphasizing the impact excessive salt use can have on the environment. Salt runs off into storm drains, local streams and eventually, to the Potomac and Patuxent rivers. Those waterways are drinking water sources for 1.9 million residents in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. Salt can corrode concrete and masonry, harm pets, damage surrounding plants and lawns and adversely impact the water supply.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT manages the County’s snowstorm response and has implemented steps to reduce salt usage such as the use of brine to pretreat roads, installing rubber bumpers on all snowplows allowing for early plowing and staff and contractor training on salt usage.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more about how you can play a part in protecting our waterways by being Salt-Wise at <a href="http://bit.ly/SaltWise" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">bit.ly/SaltWise</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175684" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-ea629a5d-7bf5-4b9d-ace1-7cf6d9c5f6ab" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #3d4c4b; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8641519/71x332sidewaysmcdot_original.png") no-repeat rgb(61, 76, 75); box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-ea629a5d-7bf5-4b9d-ace1-7cf6d9c5f6ab-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="holidayschedule" class="govd_template_image" height="126" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6867740/5146473/holidayschedule_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Holiday Transportation Schedule</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Dec. 24-25</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT offices - Closed.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On bus service - Sunday <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">schedule</a> (until 10 p.m. on Dec. 24).</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Flash</a> bus rapid transit service - Weekend and Holiday schedule (<a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/flash-orange.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Orange</a> route only).</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/RideOnExtra.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">extRa</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/flex/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Flex</a> bus service - Not in service.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Commuter</a> store at Silver Spring Transit Center - Open 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Dec. 24 and closed on Dec. 25.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Mobile</a> Commuter store - Closed.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public parking, lots and curbside meters - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/FAQ/holidays.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Free</a> Dec. 25.</li></ul><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Dec. 31 - Jan. 1</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT offices - Closed.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On bus - Sunday <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">schedule</a>.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash bus rapid transit service - Weekend schedule (Orange route only).</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On extRa and Flex bus - Not in service.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS Commuter and Mobile stores - Closed.</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public parking garages, lots and meters - Free on Jan. 1.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175687" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-f79cf9a0-e075-4c33-a508-d50a827bb4a6" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175688" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-fb953901-1159-4593-92e8-dcf6ad5b17b5" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-fb953901-1159-4593-92e8-dcf6ad5b17b5-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="bikeschooterclasses-2023-" class="govd_template_image" height="288" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8680166/5146474/bikescooterclasses233_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175690" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-390411ec-a86c-41eb-b8d6-6a663bc1632c" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175691" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-3cc1e27c-a961-4fb8-9d4a-77cb0e324fd2" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-3cc1e27c-a961-4fb8-9d4a-77cb0e324fd2-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>250 Residents Learned How to Ride a Bike or<br />E-Scooter</strong><strong> This Past Fall</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT recently completed its fall series of adult bike and e-scooter safety training classes. More than 250 residents learned basic skills to safely ride a bicycle or an electric scooter this fall. MCDOT contracted with the <a href="http://www.waba.org/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Washington Area Bicyclists Association</a> to lead the adult bike classes throughout the County. Additionally, MCDOT worked with <a href="https://www.bird.co/#ride-on" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bird</a>, <a href="https://www.li.me/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Lime</a> and <a href="https://www.spin.app/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Spin</a> to host five additional free adult e-scooter classes. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">One of the five scooter trainings catered to adults with disabilities who participate in the Montgomery County Public School’s Transition Programs. The class gave residents the opportunity to test ride an e-scooter as an alternative mode of transportation. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Nine additional classes are planned for spring 2024. Information about those classes will be posted on the MCDOT website at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">tinyurl.com/cycleclss</a> in early February. Registration is required for the bike classes and spaces typically fill up fast. No registration is required for the e-scooter training. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Bus Routes Servicing Montgomery County Homeless Shelters</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Housing Stabilization staff provide emergency assessment services to homeless families with children. Emergency shelter capacity for individuals expands during the winter months. Case management services are provided to all homeless clients to link clients to needed services, including housing referrals, treatment, employment and entitlements. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County has <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Program.aspx?id=SNHS/SNHSShelterSvcs-p744.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">four shelters</a> for those in need. See the bus routes serving them below.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Maps/1301PiccardDr-M11.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MidCounty DHHS Building</a><br />1301 Piccard Drive, Rockville, 20850</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route063.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">63</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route066.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">66</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route054.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">54</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Maps/8818GeorgiaAve-M4.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Silver Spring DHHS Silver Spring Center</a><br />8818 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, 20910</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro Rt <a href="https://buseta.wmata.com/m/index?q=Q4" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Q4</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route005.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">5</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro Rt <a href="https://buseta.wmata.com/m/index?q=Z6" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Z6</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Maps/12900MiddlebRd-M19.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">UpCounty Regional Services Center</a><br />12900 Middlebrook Road, Germantown, 20874</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route100.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">100</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route061.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">61</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS-Program/Maps/8513PineyBranchRd-M7.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Takoma East Silver Spring (TESS) Center</a><br />8513 Piney Branch Road, Silver Spring, 20901</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route015.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">15</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route013.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">13</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route012.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">12</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Rt <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route020.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">20</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><img alt="livesshatterwheatonstreetsmart" class="govd_template_image" height="240" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6809502/5146475/westfieldwheaton-dec5sm_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Learn About Pedestrian and Bike Safety at </strong>Westfield Wheaton Mall T<strong>his Weekend, Dec. 16-17</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT's pedestrian safety team will distribute safety educational materials and reflective gear to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Westfield+Wheaton/@39.0366593,-77.0550789,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cf1d82976bf7:0x6d36eb1d15beb490!8m2!3d39.0366593!4d-77.0550789!16s%2Fm%2F03d6bys" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">mall</a> shoppers during <a href="https://www.westfield.com/united-states/wheaton/services" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">mall hours</a>. Shoppers can take a shot at the prize wheel for a chance to win prizes.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The “Lives Shatter on Impact” testimonial exhibit will also be on display across from the Macy’s entrance and in front of the T-Mobile store, on the second floor. The exhibit shares heartfelt testimonials from area residents whose lives have changed when they or their loved ones have been struck by drivers and includes an educational wall with written stories and photographs. The exhibit is a part of the ongoing <a href="https://www.bestreetsmart.net/walk/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Street Smart</a> campaign, focused on reducing injuries and deaths of people walking and biking. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><span class="oypena">Youth Cruiser SmarTrip Card Now Available in Over 100 Schools</span></h3><p class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">With the Youth Cruiser SmarTrip card, students ride for free on all Ride On buses and most Metrobuses within the County.</span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">The Youth Cruiser SmarTrip cards are free and can be obtained at any </span><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvbGlicmFyeS9icmFuY2hlcy9pbmRleC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.vq5xe3AsiyIxOXZuHWObCEMn7To1d-DvIHDX5nMcndg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=WYqfKFngTnpQ2qmfzpIdyjgPd8gOZbQY3Wn8OnZ43Zw%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">county library</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">, the </span><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LWRpci9jb21tdXRlci90cmlwcy9pbmRleC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.7vC8UGWsnxmj1_6M5Gtkmf50M3jLAKZ1QVTjVo1iNp0%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=s6he2dQGVl%2FxwXnLn9Y2nDqG1DDWqezd1XtPCclmIFo%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Silver Spring</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> and </span><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LWRpci9jb21tdXRlci90cmlwcy9tb2JpbGUtY29tbXV0ZXItc3RvcmUtc2NoZWQuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjEuODU5NzEyNTEifQ.BIxuZXBYRjPKc8Vkrxri2Lu8BEcm2oSQV8TKwEq9XpY%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c6VXOYPAscbXYtg7SMoxuiSnfAYw1WR78kE4ngGt8bk%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Mobile</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> TRiPS stores, the </span><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZmluYW5jZS90YXhlcy9mYXFzLmh0bWwjY29udGFjdCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjEuODU5NzEyNTEifQ.MBz_xyKr-rW54wUilmD_waTJopyg06Zue56RtC8t4kc%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=7ccknGUq6HVKAoYd5SoglvFd0W331%2FVKte%2BZMQ%2BSkXc%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County Division of Treasury</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> in Rockville, and now in over 100 schools across the county. See if your school participates </span><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LXRyYW5zaXQva2lkc3JpZGVmcmVlL3NjaG9vbHMuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjEuODU5NzEyNTEifQ.LHE-WK4NYeAKKCtlOvDPS7g59evQ_700nL5LRcXbHYg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Z5YkgT%2Bajz2amdRoDGAEt4nxJrVzou2Rk%2FCFMxe76%2F8%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">.</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175693" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-954321ce-351c-43b7-a0ea-e11a3e25486b" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-954321ce-351c-43b7-a0ea-e11a3e25486b-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="wearehiring" class="govd_template_image" height="127" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5808002/5079718/nowhiring5_crop.gif" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT is Hiring!</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">JOIN OUR TEAM! Our positions offer applicants a competitive benefits package and a fun, supportive atmosphere, with ongoing professional development opportunities. For details on a position search the IRC number on Montgomery County's Career website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Parking</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Program Manager II (Security Manager), IRC61074</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Capital Projects Manager, IRC57387</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public Service Worker III, IRC60043</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Work Force Leader II, IRC60450</li></ul><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Highway</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Apprentice/Equip. Operator I, IRC61076</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Equipment Operator III, IRC60085</li></ul><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Transit</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Operations Supervisor, IRC60245</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Information Systems Technician, IRC60020</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Planning Specialist III, IRC60011</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Analyst, IRC59613</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Senior Information Systems Technician, IRC59961</li></ul><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Traffic Engineering</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Engineer II / III, IRC60884</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Engineer Technician I/II (Sign & Marking Team), IRC60704</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Transportation Systems Technician I (Overhead), IRC60108</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Work Force Leader III, IRC59982</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Engineer Technician I/II, IRC59559</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Traffic Management Technician I / II, IRC59483</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Engineer III/II/I (Fiber - Telecom), IRC59484</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Senior Engineer, IRC58960</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Senior Planning Specialist, IRC58781</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Transportation Systems Technician I/II/III (Installation, Maintenance, and Repair), IRC58678</li></ul><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Transportation Engineering</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Capital Projects Manager (Bridge Unit), IRC60564</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Engineer III (Lab Manager), IRC60428</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Capital Projects Manager, IRC57961</li><li style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Manager III (Contracts Unit Chief), IRC60105<br /><br /><br /></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175696" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-15624673-6c46-4c74-8ded-11f77fcb0f27" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175697" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-668d2454-3e70-4858-ab94-432584fc6ca9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-668d2454-3e70-4858-ab94-432584fc6ca9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="grosvnorbikeandride" class="govd_template_image" height="251" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8679939/grosvnor-bike-and-ride-lot2_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175699" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d7cb5aac-103d-441c-94ed-5b5f6223b135" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175700" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-f74ddb18-482d-4c7a-a3f1-06548b97e514" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-f74ddb18-482d-4c7a-a3f1-06548b97e514-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>New Bike and Ride Facility Opens at the Grosvenor-Strathmore M</strong><strong>etro S</strong><strong>tation</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/alt-mobility/shared-mobility/bicycle-scooter-sharing/press-release/53078428/wmata-launches-bike-and-ride-facility-to-improve-connectivity-for-riders?o_eid=7429H9495878E2B&rdx.ident%5bpull%5d=omeda%7C7429H9495878E2B&utm_campaign=CPS231116076&utm_medium=email&utm_source=MASS+NewsViews+Newsletter" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">recently opened</a> a new Bike and Ride facility at the Grosvenor-Strathmore station. Metro cyclist customers can store their bikes at the station, which has a safe, secure facility with room for up to 100 bikes. It has video monitoring, emergency call boxes, and repair stands equipped with tools and air pumps. The Bike and Ride can be accessed 24/7 and has bright LED lighting and steel mesh walls. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">To get free and unlimited access to the new Bike and Ride facility, or any of the other three Metro-operated Bike and Ride facilities, customers must have a registered SmarTrip® card. SmarTrip cards can be registered at <a href="https://www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">smartrip.wmata.com</a>. Customers will need to sign up for free with Metro for the Bike and Ride at <a href="https://wmata.com/service/bikes/bike-and-ride.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">wmata.com/bikeandride</a>. People should allow 3 days for a confirmation email. They can then access the Bike and Ride by tapping their physical SmarTrip card at the entrance -- mobile SmarTrip cards will not give access. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Gift Outside the Box</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Department of Environmental Protection is reminding you to “gift outside the box” and “gift greener” during the 2023 holiday season. Did you know the amount of household waste in the United States increases an average of 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day?</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The “Gift Greener” holiday campaign is all about reducing waste, saving money and supporting our local economy. The campaign is focused on five areas: <em>Buy Local</em><em>, Gift Experiences, Gift Greener, Give Back, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle</em>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more by visiting the Gift Greener website at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZGVwL2dpZnQtZ3JlZW5lci5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTIwMS44NjQ3NjgzMSJ9.vAgBwQ1U5wkO3uo1dAReH125rOklVc7WQ-cbRkYC6qg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F232059207213-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C2b3832ab3f3f4c27705a08dbf2a7e695%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638370575176546136%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=yvxsdrXFaGA0FfbhvKDJu7KBXhRFAVSFcRWis1mjcZg%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">montgomerycountymd.gov/dep/gift-greener.html</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Look out for Ride On buses that will have interior and exterior bus ads.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Conversation on Bus Shelter Maintenance with Ride On Passenger Facilities Manager Wayne Miller</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Read the interview online <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/11/a-conversation-on-bus-shelter.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175702" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c9586039-7ddb-40f8-8ce9-2703fd266a16" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c9586039-7ddb-40f8-8ce9-2703fd266a16-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="visionzeroprogramstudents" class="govd_template_image" height="225" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/11/6670463/5146476/vzam_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>High School Students Can Apply to be a Vision Zero Youth Ambassador by Friday, Dec. 15</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is seeking up to 30 County high school students to serve as “Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors.” The project-based learning program teaches teens leadership skills, outreach and engagement techniques to address traffic safety needs in their community. Applications are now being accepted. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Interested public, private and home-schooled high school students can <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-pedsafety%2FVZYA%2F&data=05%7C01%7CMark.Roper%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C9ebb2a857ae646ef57d508dbf05384a7%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638368013723457383%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Ik%2FSHdJToFAqjYDx1i%2Biy%2B%2FxVT04M7LCVxDk1ZJ3FX8%3D&reserved=0" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">learn about the program and apply online</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Employee Spotlight Interview - Innocent Nartey</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Read the interview online <a href="https://bit.ly/3sSHj92" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175705" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d07ce4ac-2243-4b97-a067-e353e3000ab3" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175706" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a8949c1b-95ef-4209-9d2e-526a3d48ebba" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a8949c1b-95ef-4209-9d2e-526a3d48ebba-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="rideonplowsnow" class="govd_template_image" height="321" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7050910/fildwybwqaae9w9_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175708" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-c82dc27d-5231-4275-911b-626b31eb7673" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175709" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d6e0bcc4-aa06-4b4c-a7ac-fb3f0c2304c9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d6e0bcc4-aa06-4b4c-a7ac-fb3f0c2304c9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Offers Tips to Prepare for Winter Storm Season</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">As the winter season begins, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security encourage residents to familiarize themselves with <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44488" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">what to do before, during and after a winter storm</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">This year, many forecasts for winter weather in the Washington, D.C. Region include above-average snowfall predictions. Winter weather may include freezing rain, ice, heavy snow, high winds or a combination of all these conditions. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Residents are encouraged to be prepared, stay informed and have a plan to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, whether at home or on the road. From snow removal tips to guides on preparing emergency kits and information on where to seek shelter from the cold, Montgomery County is preparing to help residents get ready for winter storms and extreme cold.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Visit the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvT0VNSFMvaGF6YXJkcy9uYXR1cmFsL3dpbnN0b3JtLmh0bWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMjEzLjg3MDU5MTMxIn0.GVW8O2yykxZe_u96aH0wdXTs82Mn-67oIKckpNy-mOM%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F232932882111-l&data=05%7C02%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C7aacfe67fb484c2c772908dbfbebdee1%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638380762704593818%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XxV%2F%2B1oa6MfbgV2xs678KYw5NIYdEWo0GIwGPVlHYzY%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">OEMHS Winter Storms and Extreme Cold webpage</a> for detailed tips, tools and guides on preparing for and coping with winter storms.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Look Out for MCDOT's Painted Snowplows This Winter</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT held its second <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43416&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Paint the Plow Middle School Snowplow Naming Contest</a> this past May, in honor of “Public Works Week.” There were 14 entries from local middle school students with three winners chosen for a first, second and third place cash prize for the school's art program.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The contest was free and was a unique and fun way to introduce middle school students to some of the work done by MCDOT.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The decorated snowplows will be part of the MCDOT fleet that will be clearing snow from streets this winter.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The contest will run again this spring. Last year’s winners can be seen online <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot-highway%2FPaintThePlow%2Findex.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C699c72be1fa34a2436b408daffc9fcfc%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638103540272091752%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8ddnl9KyN6VUEoh1ZOnAHwNzVa4OcSCbYTQ7El%2B3GRk%3D&reserved=0" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Offers Driver Safety Outreach at Motor Vehicle Administration Locations in January</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Each Saturday in January the MCDOT Pedestrian Safety team will be visiting the Gaithersburg and White Oak Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branches to spread awareness on <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/Resources/Files/PedSafety_SpanishSafetyBroRND_ToPrint_101122.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">driver safety</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">View dates and locations on <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT’s calendar</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175711" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-e2cb6490-0bb2-4ad2-b078-a476502f21ef" style="background-color: #3d4c4b; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-e2cb6490-0bb2-4ad2-b078-a476502f21ef-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="rideoninsnow" class="govd_template_image" height="128" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2020/12/3958097/5146477/rideonsnow_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Winter Transportation Tips</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Taking public transportation in the winter is a great alternative to avoid the hassle of driving in poor weather conditions. Our valued customers can count on Ride On to be safe and reliable, getting you to your destination while you stay warm and relaxed in our buses. View winter transportation tips online <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/11/winter-public-transportation-rider-tips.html" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Use the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Trip Planner App</a> for easy, regional public transit planning.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 153.009px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery College Students Ride Free This Winter</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery College students ride free on Ride On buses with valid university sticker on their student identification (ID) cards. Students may ride free if their IDs have the light green color stickers for the Winter session effective Monday, Dec. 18 through Friday, Jan. 19. The light green winter 2023 stickers will expire on Friday, Jan.19.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">As a reminder, Montgomery College issues different versions of student IDs. One ID is purple and white, another is dark purple and black, and a vertical version. All ID versions with the current light green stickers are valid for free rides on Ride On.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175724" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-831a572a-0199-4ff7-af65-3363a9376974" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175725" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a11d8c52-e726-4cb8-be6b-b9b288ddf732" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a11d8c52-e726-4cb8-be6b-b9b288ddf732-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="public meetings35" class="govd_template_image" height="243" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8677580/5146478/52506495130-80fe1c6959-5k67_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /><h1 align="right" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.67em 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px; text-align: right;">PUBLIC MEETINGS & GRANTS</h1></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175728" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-deee4816-4b29-4cf0-a526-be351d59bc57" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175729" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-71989227-2b44-4a2d-bebb-965ca7cc31d9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-71989227-2b44-4a2d-bebb-965ca7cc31d9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Consideration of the Requested Access Restriction on Leland Street in Chevy Chase</strong></h3><p class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">On Wednesday, Dec. 6, MCDOT held a</span><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44384&Dept=50" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> virtual public hearing</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> to discuss the process of considering an access restriction, including the installation of a regulatory sign to restrict southbound right turns from </span>MD 186 (Brookville Road) to Leland Street<span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> between 7-9 a.m., Monday through Friday, pursuant to a request made by the Hamlet Citizens Association in Chevy Chase. Questions and comments may still be submitted by Friday, Jan. 12 by email to </span><a href="mailto:trafficops@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">trafficops@montgomerycountymd.gov</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> or via the </span><a href="https://forms.office.com/g/k5Pipazqeb" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">online written testimony/comment form</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">.</span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Speaks at TRB Webinar </strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Click <a href="https://vimeo.com/889527001/bf00f1a8ac?share=copy" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a> to join MCDOT Senior Planner, Matt Johnson, as he discusses how to make floating bus stops safe and accessible to passengers with vision disabilities at a recent Transportation Leadership Board webinar. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Enhanced Mobility Grants Program</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is soliciting grant applications for the Enhanced Mobility Grants Program from qualified organizations providing direct transportation services in the County. This program aims to increase access to transportation services for residents who are disabled as well as seniors, individuals with limited incomes, and other vulnerable populations. Learn more <a href="https://mcmdgrants.smapply.org/prog/fy24_enhanced_mobility/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175732" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-7cfc92a1-871c-4d01-8438-0a59a1e16bfe" style="background-color: #5c8794; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-7cfc92a1-871c-4d01-8438-0a59a1e16bfe-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Proposed Amherst Avenue Bikeway in Wheaton</strong></p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">On Tuesday, Dec. 12, MCDOT held a </span><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44365&Dept=50" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">hybrid public meeting</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> to present the proposed Amherst Avenue Bikeway project in Wheaton. The Amherst Avenue Bikeway project provides for the design and construction of a 2-way cycle track for an approximately 1.1-mile section of westbound Amherst Avenue between Windham Lane and Arcola Avenue.</span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">The public has until Friday, Jan. 12 to provide comments via email to Angel Cheng at </span><a href="mailto:angel.cheng@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">angel.cheng@montgomerycountymd.gov</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"> or via this online </span><a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZCHuBxSPIctJgcgbxDrbdZNUOVk0SVJFM0lUOVlPWUdRSjdZUE5BUEw1VC4u" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">comment form</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">. All information provided will become a matter of public record.</span></p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;"><strong>Carroll Avenue Separated Bike Lanes Project in Silver Spring</strong></span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">On Tuesday, Dec. 5, MCDOT held an <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44382&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">in-person public meeting</a> on the proposed design that will provide one-way separated bike lanes on each side of Carroll Avenue from Merrimac Drive to University Boulevard and a two-way cycletrack on the east side of the street from University Boulevard to Piney Branch Road (MD 320).</span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">Feedback and questions may still be submitted (in English or Spanish) by Friday, Dec. 22 to Project Manager Matt Johnson by email at </span><a href="mailto:Matt.Johnson@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Matt.Johnson@<br />montgomerycountymd.gov</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">.</span></p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><p class="cvgsua" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175714" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-cf313f55-ef2a-417d-b61d-7d3c1444033e" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175715" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-dd415e53-13b0-455a-b54f-9d6bebfdf886" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-dd415e53-13b0-455a-b54f-9d6bebfdf886-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="i495-27045455" class="govd_template_image" height="215" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8679352/5146479/i270and495w_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /><h1 align="right" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.67em 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px; text-align: right;">PARTNER NEWS</h1></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175718" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-91b67f10-aa53-4616-b28f-f0bdae82d71e" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175719" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-b3631ed6-1519-4b62-b61a-8340df6aef9d" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-b3631ed6-1519-4b62-b61a-8340df6aef9d-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Maryland State Highway Administration Work to Improve Surface of I-495 in County Will Lead to Extensive Lane Closures Through End of Year</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration has started a project to maintain pavement and improve ride quality on I-495 (the Capital Beltway) that will impact Montgomery County drivers through the end of the year. The work will be done five nights a week between MD 191 (Bradley Boulevard) and east of Linden Lane and between east of Northwest Branch Anacostia River and US 29 (Colesville Road).</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The work will be performed nightly from 9 p.m.-5 a.m., Sundays through Thursdays. The work is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year, weather permitting. At times, as many as three lanes will be closed in each direction. Closing three travel lanes will provide a safe buffer to enhance the protection of road workers. Learn more <a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/11/maryland-state-highway-administration.html" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Amtrak Ridership Increases During Fiscal Year 2023</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Northeast Regional ridership grew more than 29 percent and served nearly 9.2 million customer trips. Fourth-quarter ridership levels were 8 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels. Read the Transportation Today article <a href="https://transportationtodaynews.com/news/31806-amtrak-ridership-increases-during-fiscal-year-2023/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><h3 class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><span class="oypena">Heads Up: DC Now Ticketing Vehicles in Bus Zones</span></h3><p class="cvgsua" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">Watch the NBC4 report </span><a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/heads-up-dc-now-ticketing-vehicles-in-bus-zones/3471066/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a><span class="oypena" style="line-height: 1.4;">.</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175721" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-038a701c-107d-456c-b822-6d6922208654" style="background-color: #5c8794; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-038a701c-107d-456c-b822-6d6922208654-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Activates ‘Holiday Task Force’ to Detect Impaired Drivers with Sobriety Checkpoints and Saturation Patrols Through Saturday, Jan. 13</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">As part of <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County's Vision Zero</a> effort to prevent death and injury on its roadways, the County annually implements a Holiday Task Force in which police officers from multiple agencies devote time and attention to detecting impaired drivers. The Holiday Task Force began on Wednesday, Nov. 8 and will operate through Saturday, Jan. 13. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44355&Dept=50" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here.</a></p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">SoberRide will offer free Lyft codes for safe rides home to adults who choose to celebrate with alcohol. Learn more at <a href="https://wrap.org/soberride/" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">wrap.org/soberride</a>. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding: 1px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Giant Food to Add Electric Vehicle Charging Stations</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Giant Food will soon add free electric vehicle charging stations at the supermarket chain's downtown Silver Spring location. Read the Source of Spring article <a href="https://www.sourceofthespring.com/silver-spring-news/2811902/giant-food-to-add-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=2023-12-08&utm_campaign=+The+Latest+News+From+Source+of+the+Spring&utm_content=Daily+RSS+Newsletter" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding: 1px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MDOT MTA Temporarily Suspends All Light-Rail Service</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">During a recent inspection, the MTA discovered the potential for a punctured conduit on its light-rail vehicles; limited service will be restored once at least eight railcars are available.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/rail/press-release/53080370/maryland-department-of-transportation-mdot-mdot-mta-temporarily-suspends-all-light-rail-service" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175739" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-88c1269f-94b8-4972-9051-5a5dbf03d9c4" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175740" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a660c9f3-681c-472f-8827-53665984394c" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a660c9f3-681c-472f-8827-53665984394c-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;"><strong>METRO NEWS</strong></h1><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro Plans to Shut Down Red Line Service at Four Stations from December 18 –30 for Critical Repairs and Upgrades</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Monday, Dec.18, Metro will begin a two-week <a href="https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/red-line-construction/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">construction project on the Red Line</a> to perform critical safety repairs to the tunnel and track infrastructure, upgrade signal and communications systems, and install new platform edge lights.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">WMATA will provide <a href="https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/red-line-construction/Shuttle-Bus-and-Travel-Alternatives.cfm" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">free shuttle buses</a>, during Red Line station closures.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Other rail lines will continue to serve downtown stations, with Blue, Orange, and Silver Line service at Metro Center and Green and Yellow Line service available at Gallery Place. A full list of shuttle and travel alternatives is available on WMATA's website at <a href="https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/red-line-construction/Shuttle-Bus-and-Travel-Alternatives.cfm" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">wmata.com/majorconstruction.</a></p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Important Dates & Service Information:</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Dec. 18-21 and Dec. 25-30</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Free shuttles replace trains between Dupont Circle and Gallery Place.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Trains will operate in two segments:</li><ul style="list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Between Shady Grove and Dupont Circle every 8 minutes (every 10 minutes after 9:30 p.m.).</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Between Gallery Place and Glenmont every 10 minutes.</li></ul><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Farragut North will be closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro Center’s upper level will be closed.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Dec. 22-24</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://wmata.com/initiatives/plans/red-line-construction/Shuttle-Bus-and-Travel-Alternatives.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Free shuttles</a> replace trains between Dupont Circle and Union Station.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Trains will operate in two segments:</li><ul style="list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Between Shady Grove and Dupont Circle every 8 minutes.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Between Union Station and Glenmont every 8 minutes (every 10 minutes after 9:30 p.m.).</li></ul><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Farragut North will be closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Judiciary Square will be closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro Center’s upper level will be closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Gallery Place’s upper level will be closed.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175741" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-732a21c4-8d62-45df-8618-ecada495d48a" style="background-color: #5c8794; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-732a21c4-8d62-45df-8618-ecada495d48a-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"> </h3><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">New All-Door Boarding, Service Improvements and Facility Upgrades to Provide Metro Customers With a ‘Better Bus’ Experience, Starting Dec. 17</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Beginning Sunday, Dec. 17, Metrobus will make changes to 43 bus routes in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, including all-door boarding and 24/7 bus service on select routes. Rail to bus transfers will be made easier at Greenbelt, with full implementation of bus transfer lights, followed by bus loop improvements starting at Friendship Heights on Monday, Dec. 18.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metrobus-Dec-17-service-changes.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro Begins Repressing Wheels on 7000-Series Fleet to New, Improved Standard</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">In early December, Metro announced that it has begun replacing the wheels on all 7000-series railcars under new, higher standards that will allow Metro to resume regular maintenance intervals and gradually add more 7K railcars to service. </p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-begins-repressing-wheels-on-7000-series-fleet-to-new-improved-standard.cfm" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro: Silver Spring Escalator Replacement Project Now Complete</strong></h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro has announced that the year-plus escalator replacement project at the Silver Spring station is complete. The project is part of Metro’s <a href="https://www.wmata.com/initiatives/plans/escalator-canopy-elevator.cfm" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">escalator replacement program</a>, which will replace 130 escalators across 32 stations by the year 2028.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.sourceofthespring.com/silver-spring-news/2812755/metro-silver-spring-escalator-replacement-project-now-complete/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=2023-12-12&utm_campaign=+The+Latest+News+From+Source+of+the+Spring&utm_content=Daily+RSS+Newsletter" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Bus Loop Construction at Friendship Heights Metro Station to Impact Ride On Bus Routes Beginning Sunday, Dec. 17</h3><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Beginning on Sunday, Dec. 17 the bus loop at Friendship Heights Metro Station will close for approximately two months due to a WMATA concrete replacement project. During the closure, all Metrobus and Ride On routes normally served inside the loop will be temporarily relocated.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44425&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: white; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175745" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-f819575d-41eb-4f5c-88f4-4be9db7da3b9" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175746" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0848e7ac-d3ec-4315-b8a6-7f8830e78482" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0848e7ac-d3ec-4315-b8a6-7f8830e78482-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="whatsnewnews" class="govd_template_image" height="192" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8679536/5148984/adobestock-133492249sm_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175748" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#E9E9E9" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-16bb60be-993f-4de9-bf5a-a8eb12f231c7" style="background-color: #e9e9e9;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175749" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="article87" class="govd_template_image" height="195" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8679550/5146481/articlemicro_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Shared Mobility to Make Up 7% of All Urban Journeys by 2030 - Report</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">A recent report from a European consultant said that shared micromobility will become a $400 billion industry and make up seven percent of all urban trips by 2030. Read the Reuters article <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/shared-mobility-make-up-7-all-urban-journeys-by-2030-report-2023-11-14/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="article35788" class="govd_template_image" height="177" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8679565/5146482/picture6_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Extreme Weather And Sea Level Rise Among Top Climate Risks To D.C. Area, New Assessment Says</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The latest National Climate Assessment shows the D.C. region is especially at risk of extreme weather, flooding, and sea level rise as the earth warms. The congressionally mandated assessment also shows uneven progress in the region responding to a hotter planet.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">For the purposes of the assessment, the country is broken up into regions — there are seven in the contiguous U.S. The D.C. area is split between the Northeast and Southeast regions, with the Potomac River as the dividing line. Learn more <a href="https://dcist.com/story/23/11/14/dc-maryland-virginia-region-national-climate-assessment-2023/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="article347" class="govd_template_image" height="184" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8686522/5148594/articlewashpost54_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Car Safety Agency Takes Step Toward Requiring Anti-Drunk Driving Tech</strong></p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The infrastructure law called for systems that would stop people from driving drunk, and regulators are exploring how to mandate them in new a car.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The federal car safety agency took a significant step toward requiring that new vehicles be equipped with sensors to detect whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol and prevent them from pulling away, technology that experts say could save thousands of lives each year. Read the Washington Post article <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/12/12/nhtsa-drunk-driving-technology-mandate/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175756" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-b86e82b7-b5bd-4cd4-ba27-eaa03bcf74d4" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175757" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-7eebd092-e88c-4e1d-85a1-65be1a0530bd" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-7eebd092-e88c-4e1d-85a1-65be1a0530bd-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 600px;" width="600" /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="282"><img alt="mcdotsocial04956" class="govd_template_image" height="223" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/12/8685289/5148174/socialmedia4590_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 282px;" width="282" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 align="left" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"> </h3><p align="left" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="http://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.threads.net/@mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Threads</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mcdotnow.bsky.social" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Bluesky</a> or <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><br />For more information on MCDOT programs<br />and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and<br /><a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_350" rel="noopener" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news<br />by phone or email.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="105175759" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 20.4px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#384C5E" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0b1d9ab5-3d21-4351-8f28-e6cb8cd57cd2" style="background-color: #384c5e;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="105175760" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-912030be-3b8c-48e9-a07a-68353e73b9db" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-912030be-3b8c-48e9-a07a-68353e73b9db-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p align="center" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #c4def5; outline: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</strong></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-14677816451356351562023-11-28T11:12:00.006-05:002023-12-11T10:04:21.595-05:00 Ride On's Winter Public Transportation Rider Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnT_lRHv0uPYnSXrrh_M069PePB-Wr6cPwfyhMiafaFv1oQnLWcHU7bnE0TdLOLSajxTV8E7LJZwluOSdGaWJ65AQe9RbMU4LhbpVzVVp21FwPLqs0z3b2-Us_JPGgzuIy6oKAq-NUQ1a7spipCpp3z3I-A6XEPxJl4pQ-Vdhx19jIJDO9icy6ydaSwqE/s427/rideon%20in%20winter.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="199" data-original-width="427" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnT_lRHv0uPYnSXrrh_M069PePB-Wr6cPwfyhMiafaFv1oQnLWcHU7bnE0TdLOLSajxTV8E7LJZwluOSdGaWJ65AQe9RbMU4LhbpVzVVp21FwPLqs0z3b2-Us_JPGgzuIy6oKAq-NUQ1a7spipCpp3z3I-A6XEPxJl4pQ-Vdhx19jIJDO9icy6ydaSwqE/w400-h186/rideon%20in%20winter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt; margin: 12pt 0in 11.25pt;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">Taking public
transportation during winter is a great alternative to avoid the hassle of driving in poor
weather conditions. Our valued customers can count on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LXRyYW5zaXQvaW5kZXguaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjEuODU5NzEyNTEifQ.6ZYhmk0cXoA2-ftIrg8PydozrE_T3aiGiv3u1QwLqUg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=l4lzU5a9oRFunCE88KZRitvPAOSWgv0YDWE20y%2BXRf8%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Ride On</span></a> to be safe and reliable, getting
you to your destination while you stay warm and relaxed in our
buses. </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">The safety of our
customers continues to be our top priority. Here are seven safety tips we
recommend you take while riding with us during the Winter weather:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Plan for extra time in your
commute.</span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Winter weather conditions
such as snow and ice may cause delays to the bus schedule. Planning extra
time may ensure that even with the delays, you can get to your destination
on time. <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dress
accordingly.</span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Be
prepared to wait extra time for the bus to arrive. As a result, what you
wear is crucial to staying warm while waiting on the bus or walking to
your destination.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Consider
getting a virtual SmarTrip Card.</span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Our
hands tend to suffer the most during the Winter weather because they are
usually exposed due to activity. With a virtual SmarTrip card, you can
simply use your phone to pay for fares while still wearing your gloves. It
also saves you time looking for the physical card while staying
contactless during this time. The virtual SmarTrip card is available for
iOS and Android. <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Be
Visible. </span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It gets dark
early so be sure to make yourself visible to an approaching bus. Hold a
flashlight or use your cell phone’s light so that the bus operator can see
you at the stop. If possible, wear reflective apparel or safety items
(bands, pins) for more visibility on your coat or clothing.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stand
clear from the curb. </span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Standing
close to the curb is dangerous especially during inclement weather. Buses
may slide on snow as they approach the curb. Be sure to stand clear from
the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop and is ready for
boarding. NEVER stand in the street.<strong> </strong> <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Be
careful when boarding and stepping off the bus. </span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before
trying to board. Bus steps can become slippery from snow. Try to clean the
snow off your shoes before boarding. Be sure to always use the handrails
while getting on or off the bus and take your time.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li aria-level="1" class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Use
our Trip Planning App.</span></strong><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Plan
your trip, check bus arrival times, and get alerts when your stop is
approaching with the new Ride On Trip Planner app. The app is available
for download for iOS and Android devices, and in a desktop version.
Download the app <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LXRyYW5zaXQvdHJpcC1wbGFubmVyLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjEuODU5NzEyNTEifQ.TVgFN5iAKQ89j-7gvv7x2DgyMzbl3Jc_uoto1loE5fg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=5MGEBbBB4lB6fYZoToGP4frPQedqwldehJ0TO0Xh6JI%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">here</span></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ride On <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">bus fare is only $1</span></a> and monthly passes
are $22.50 using SmarTrip, cash, or tokens. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Seniors age 65 or older, persons with disabilities</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">youth ages 18 and under</span></a> all ride free
using specialized SmartTrip cards.</span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Riders can plan
trips online using the free <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Ride On Trip Planner App</span></a>. </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For the most
up-to-date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">YouTube.</span></a> In addition, information is
available at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">rideonbus.com</span></a>, by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribing</span></a> to receive email alerts, or
by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For information on
MCDOT programs and services visit <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</span></a>, follow @MCDOTNow
on <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribe</span></a> to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!”
newsletter. </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-4267235238458593342023-11-28T11:05:00.001-05:002023-11-28T11:05:08.452-05:00A Ride On Guide to Montgomery County Parks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4V7WcolrIy25u8rBrBYjrBE7HtiDrB0E59fna_BGwcmXXL60k9KXLViV3lT7HaK5CZhNBX57rlovlqk9VpfuTFQ8YpbqsMSKAoPJYduxQk2eTb3qXrQU2MCS2pCY2gbXHl4Kulj9XVb4v_2CIdanPxZS9TGw6WfXQR_OpagO018DeqlcMbvpCV1qgHE0/s1420/parkslogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1420" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4V7WcolrIy25u8rBrBYjrBE7HtiDrB0E59fna_BGwcmXXL60k9KXLViV3lT7HaK5CZhNBX57rlovlqk9VpfuTFQ8YpbqsMSKAoPJYduxQk2eTb3qXrQU2MCS2pCY2gbXHl4Kulj9XVb4v_2CIdanPxZS9TGw6WfXQR_OpagO018DeqlcMbvpCV1qgHE0/w640-h360/parkslogo.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Montgomery
County residents are taking every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors before
winter weather arrives. Montgomery County has a great selection of parks to
enjoy - many of which are easily accessible no matter where in the county you
reside. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">If you and your family
need to get out of the house and into nature this fall, Ride On is ready to
help get you there. Read below for a selection of the area's parks and which
Ride On routes you can take to get you there.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbW9udGdvbWVyeXBhcmtzLm9yZy9wYXJrcy1hbmQtdHJhaWxzL3doZWF0b24tcmVnaW9uYWwtcGFyay8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMTIxLjg1OTcxMjUxIn0.KTgmPVIJ3bt2Wp82dzo72OeKVx8pUqnklsEdSJXKq98%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4JGvoGPiNivVXc2uuMZCWr1zqBbgplPnXATpt1rgeY8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Wheaton Regional Park:</span></a></span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <br />
<br />
Visit Wheaton Regional Park in Silver Spring for fun for every member of
your family. This park features multiple playground structures, lots of
walking trails, sports fields and venues, and even a dog park. Take the
kids for a ride on the carousel or ride the miniature train to see holiday
decorations for a day they'll be begging to repeat. Feeling festive? The
Wheaton Ice Arena has open skate times to make you feel like the holidays
have come to stay. Take Ride On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAzMS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.Si1mb8u8ApjVBSbNSVwV_jz_oqTogaN10KOlH0QYxxQ%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=00PIdVukdm2U%2BH%2BZAYI8ZFYzc%2F07rxNamHD2DcXj7%2FY%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">31</span></a> or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAwOS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.D90Z_6Tv0U-Gg7Xl1XJeNPjvR8qQ1_6EwQhl9ITZMVU%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=wFktwbgH6ERoO7CvufAOk04YYc6CKiFCoNUySpu3X0U%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">9</span></a> for access to this fun-filled spot.<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbW9udGdvbWVyeXBhcmtzLm9yZy9wYXJrcy1hbmQtdHJhaWxzL2NhYmluLWpvaG4tcmVnaW9uYWwtcGFyay8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMTIxLjg1OTcxMjUxIn0.qU2AmpawWfgsSaWa5v4EoAvtVrAeK-kRhD7xpRH0Ii4%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=V%2Fu%2F30NSxMDfLZumxWgqKaW7ePZADdiBhMz8n6UuQ0A%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Cabin John Regional Park:</span></a></span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <br />
<br />
Cabin John Regional Park attractions include various athletic fields,
tennis on both indoor and lighted outdoor courts, and even ice skating in
any weather at the fully enclosed Cabin John Ice Rink. Visitors can become
entranced by a ride on the model train, spend the afternoon relaxing with
family and friends at various picnic and playground areas. Want to camp
without leaving the city? The Robert C. McDonell Campground offers
seven walk-in primitive sites. Take Ride On Route <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTAzNy5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.YJTAV3AD-IdzyxdXoQcW5pcBmv9HwNXiyRA-8sdfPuw%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Yzlncy7EJbQI0Epvjcxg4ZwFjPjM3%2F%2B61uhSOZ3Nf48%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">37</span></a> to arrive right in the middle of the
park, no parking spot necessary. <br />
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZG5yLm1hcnlsYW5kLmdvdi9wdWJsaWNsYW5kcy9wYWdlcy9jZW50cmFsL3NlbmVjYS5hc3B4IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.9JwDduhtndDlMEhso1arda44-_dOPPFYC0S6Bl-UvDM%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=usqSzYJwyApunef5IB%2FYhGjYxPSvGrcTLko%2FogS9CDs%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Seneca Creek State Park</span></a>:</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <br />
<br />
Seneca Creek State Park spans 6,300 acres, including the 90-acre
Clopper Lake. Picnicking, boat rentals, trails and a tire playground are
just some of its recreational opportunities. A restored 19th century cabin
and a self-guided path interpret the history of the area. Over 50 miles of
trails are open for hiking, horseback riding and bicycling which wind
through a variety of habitat. To visit Seneca Creek State Park, take Ride
On Routes <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA2MS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.32iMUVVV36rAiicG7G8O6Z3lEy9oSN6_i7A1LN1YihA%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=alYjSXZ2m4i1sjC3LCtmEB%2BGCG0bSvQyqmS8%2Frb%2BjyQ%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">61</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA3MS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.PDEayqhlOtLnRL_6GJ0lZVQj1axqH0krH64JHc2TPuE%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2TbNW1WwuuFuEnydPraKNH7O9xEP%2FU%2F80nF4h%2B92%2BJ0%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">71</span></a>, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA3NC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.fCQ1TlIFqhBNOiKClEO6Xu0j-UFgkhHufhfG7Zyn4nA%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gZFWIFlOyfSoH%2Bo0VpqdNqCkf2Szp5hZ96TO%2BBTq4%2F4%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">74</span></a>, or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA3OC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.zlaX6Y4iSSR-Fo9burhFqnRHcNTdIzGmqTqKVZzeG_0%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=akzU%2BhOwAkHbvmne1pwi0R3yqTPAfh9cFgg77E6gdu0%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">78</span></a>.<br />
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbW9udGdvbWVyeXBhcmtzLm9yZy9wYXJrcy1hbmQtdHJhaWxzL3JvY2stY3JlZWstcmVnaW9uYWwtcGFyay8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMxMTIxLjg1OTcxMjUxIn0.oiZJn3iYh2R_BJHiPi9hBPHHgezt0b-miPeDQi_-1e4%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=FT6cvDU3VTGZGTvwg%2FWN0HLeGKLDzadVJIuWa0vtw5E%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Rock Creek Regional Park:</span></strong></a> <br />
<br />
Rock Creek Regional Park stretches across approximately 1,800 acres and
includes the 75-acre Lake Needwood and the 55-acre Lake Frank.
Meander along 13 miles of trails through woodlands and along the lake
shores, or go picnicking, fishing, or boating while viewing the many
species of resident wildlife. Other park amenities include playgrounds,
Needwood Boat Rental and Snack Bar, Meadowside Nature Center, and lake
tours on the <em>Needwood
Queen</em>. Take Ride On Route <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1My5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.Y-eOMNAwTKd33Ckkfz21C6IRpFxU763eanXLLjC8lY0%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166836036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=73CZ6xDavai5AjOIjAnIIFaCcM9slB21B4Oi3ktchHg%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">53</span></a> (or <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA1OS5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.uKdW_tH3-L558Ms1_SOkVFoyYEDimAjUAwpnzJ4XG2k%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=DSEp8pvz%2FeL3mz430Xg79OzkafqbRkVAc5t5mlcbkMs%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">59</span></a> if you like to hike) to visit this
gem. <br />
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbW9udGdvbWVyeXBhcmtzLm9yZy9wYXJrcy1hbmQtdHJhaWxzL3NvdXRoLWdlcm1hbnRvd24tcmVjcmVhdGlvbmFsLXBhcmsvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.cf4RiC77HrV2G_-cRkVru-myxATm3jkznq_MNMVbmNg%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=jO2dJsNyswaaoIPApDJ%2FE4cH11Ur%2BqIwx1lALxgovwM%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1d5782;">South Germantown
Recreational Park:</span></strong></a> <br />
<br />
South Germantown Recreational Park is one of Montgomery Parks’ most active
parks. The large park offers a variety of activities to choose from,
including hiking, biking, archery, miniature golf, swimming, soccer,
picnicking, and adventure play, to name just a few. Whether you're a BMX
biker or a cricket player, South Germantown Recreational Park has
something for everyone. Ride On Route <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcm91dGVzYW5kc2NoZWR1bGVzL2FsbHJvdXRlcy9yb3V0ZTA5OC5odG1sIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTEyMS44NTk3MTI1MSJ9.2_vt7h3mdSeSueV09Jqw2vl6XkubDRtFUQ8pH5aIFb4%2Fs%2F3077528916%2Fbr%2F231321782882-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C5674bf32059747e40f7908dbeaa6c214%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638361774166991066%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nC%2BUqZ0qGZM8kIjS03%2BsArWbodnwxwDzqYqOpJmCs2U%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1d5782;">98</span></a> passes directly through the center of
this park, getting you right where you want to go.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ride On <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">bus fare is only $1</span></a> and monthly passes
are $22.50 using SmarTrip, cash, or tokens. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Seniors age 65 or older, persons with disabilities</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">youth ages 18 and under</span></a> all ride free
using specialized SmartTrip cards.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Riders can plan trips online using the free <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Ride On Trip Planner App</span></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For the most up-to-date service information, riders should
follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">YouTube.</span></a> In addition, information is
available at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">rideonbus.com</span></a>, by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribing</span></a> to receive email alerts, or
by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For information on MCDOT programs and services visit <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</span></a>, follow @MCDOTNow
on <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/411665161602690095/5279789223033212595"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribe</span></a> to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!”
newsletter. <o:p></o:p></span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-62133886327095138512023-11-28T10:52:00.004-05:002023-11-28T10:52:43.929-05:00Ride On Employee Spotlight Interview - Innocent Nartey<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMWRg9KJfaKC6N0sUpSM-1ou2yZZAPhc6xY2cqkl93lDuO7HLl7c7Owq4CaBASSouAZ_H98eN82QfVCR-21gjFHJIy_8KzyY0Uh0DG5xj8rfND-AnkEhUJUFejb64R9Q7ktCoqHNoUHO3Kamqur2FoWsR0z0q7aGidweT10nY2wWgNbpJo8QOZ03h0D8/s903/nartey.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="858" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMWRg9KJfaKC6N0sUpSM-1ou2yZZAPhc6xY2cqkl93lDuO7HLl7c7Owq4CaBASSouAZ_H98eN82QfVCR-21gjFHJIy_8KzyY0Uh0DG5xj8rfND-AnkEhUJUFejb64R9Q7ktCoqHNoUHO3Kamqur2FoWsR0z0q7aGidweT10nY2wWgNbpJo8QOZ03h0D8/s320/nartey.png" width="304" /></a><br /><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">Tell
us how long you have been with MCDOT and describe your career path within
MCDOT.</span></strong></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">I have been with
the county for a total of 25 years. I drove a Ride On bus from 1998 to 2008. I
went to the Finance Department for 6 years. I returned to MCDOT in 2014 as a
Transit Operations Supervisor, until my recent promotion to Program Manager II<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">Please
describe the day-to-day activities pertaining to your work.</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">I monitor the
activities of the front desk, making sure all runs are covered and on time,
minimize missed trips, handle safety issues at the depot, approve operator
leave, assign work to substitute operators and prepare the relief board.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">Please provide some
examples of your role’s direct impact on Ride On operations.</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">I help new
operators get to know the job. I also make sure each operator has a
run (what routes they are driving that day) and is comfortable with what
he or she is doing.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">What are the most
challenging parts of your job?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">One of the most
challenging parts of my job is making sure all runs are covered when operator
callouts increase suddenly.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">What is the best
part of your job?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">I love getting to
work with people from different countries and different cultures.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="cf01"><b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">What
experience and personal characteristics are the best matches for this job?</span></b></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">In this
position knowing how to manage people is very important, as well as
knowing how to stay calm in stressful situations. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.3333px;"><b>If you are interested in working for the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, search 'Transportation' for job openings <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/index.html">here</a>. </b></span></span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-52797892230332125952023-11-28T10:31:00.008-05:002023-11-28T10:31:52.704-05:00A Conversation on Bus Shelter Maintenance with Ride On Passenger Facilities Manager Wayne Miller<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5wuQTKBKVz3hBgFoHVoZft35ZqbXaQ19As3MM71hKysLEBInzOSuq_4Hn2V0SKVWQjvMroXr1NcSJ2cWRUg_ugD06mEaGcSzklxDOk-WEfvUn9maPew-2zfzJqDlAaoD_7LUbskyazk00MDEa6CaYATcABXz0Kd3KVo6NT7Pe3JAE0cTjnrBjdypnaw/s570/busshelter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="570" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5wuQTKBKVz3hBgFoHVoZft35ZqbXaQ19As3MM71hKysLEBInzOSuq_4Hn2V0SKVWQjvMroXr1NcSJ2cWRUg_ugD06mEaGcSzklxDOk-WEfvUn9maPew-2zfzJqDlAaoD_7LUbskyazk00MDEa6CaYATcABXz0Kd3KVo6NT7Pe3JAE0cTjnrBjdypnaw/w400-h348/busshelter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">What
amenities can passengers expect to find at Ride On bus shelters? </span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
typical bus shelter is internally lit, has seating for up to 4 persons and has
a significantly larger waiting area than a typical bus stop. Shelters also have
larger trash cans. A select few shelters also have Realtime information screens
with some having on-call audio announcements of routes and arrival information
via a push button.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">How
does Ride On select locations for bus shelters, and what factors are considered
in the process?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Locations
are typically selected based on average daily boardings (>50), and the needs
of vulnerable community members such as schools and senior residences. However,
location selections are dependent on the availability of sufficient public
right of way to allow for the larger footprint of a bus shelter and its related
amenities.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Can
you explain the process of creating new bus stops and shelters for areas that
currently lack them?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">New
bus stops are usually driven by community activity and the availability of
sufficient public right of way to construct ADA-compliant access and waiting
areas for transit users. Typically rural areas may have greater distances
between bus stops, followed by suburbs, with urban areas likely to have bus
stops at each block to minimize the conflict between users and traffic. Ideally, bus stops are placed at intersections, before or after depending on turning
movements, close to street lighting and accessible by sidewalk. The primary
difference between siting of a regular bus stop verses a shelter is the space
available.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Are
there plans to expand the number of bus shelters in the area?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Since
the end of the County’s franchise agreement in 2019, the County has lost 24 bus
shelters which would be our first priority for replacement once funding became
available. The next plan would be to provide shelters across the educational
institutions that are currently without, followed by other locations on a
case-by-case basis. The current 490 shelters are approximately 11-15 years old
and will need to be replaced on a phased basis as many are beyond their useful
life and would exceed the cost of a new shelter to repair.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">What’s
the significance of knee walls in bus shelter design, and how do they benefit
passengers?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Knee
walls are a creative solution to inadequate funding for bus stop furniture.
They serve the purpose of delineating the bus stop, protects users from a
change in grade behind the bus stop, and also provide an solid surface for
seating.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">How
does Ride On ensure the maintenance and cleanliness of bus shelters?</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Ride On currently
has a maintenance contract for repairs and cleaning of the bus shelters on a
weekly basis, with monthly power washing, quarterly sanitization as well as
landscaping as needed. In addition, we also leverage another contractor to provide
trash collection at all the county-maintained bus shelters and numerous bus
stops.<u1:p></u1:p></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Ride
On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-transit/fares/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">bus fare is only $1</span></a> and monthly passes
are $22.50 using SmarTrip, cash, or tokens. <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/senior-smartrip.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Seniors age 65 or older, persons with disabilities</span></a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/kidsridefree/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">youth ages 18 and under</span></a> all ride free
using specialized SmartTrip cards.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Riders
can plan trips online using the free <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Ride On Trip Planner App</span></a>. </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">For
the most up-to-date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a>,
and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsfV-Du4y5TlZF8v0Mm4Mmg" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">YouTube.</span></a> In addition, information is
available at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">rideonbus.com</span></a>, by <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribing</span></a> to receive email alerts, or
by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="background: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">For
information on MCDOT programs and services visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</span></a>, follow @MCDOTNow
on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribe</span></a> to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!”
newsletter. </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
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</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-39151491966964992862023-11-09T16:17:00.016-05:002023-11-09T16:58:14.865-05:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter - NOVEMBER 2023<p> </p><main id="page" style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, arial, Geneva, Helvetica, Century; font-size: 17px; margin: 6px auto; max-width: 720px; position: relative; width: 719.99px;"><article><div class="bulletin_display" id="bulletin_content" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px;"><div class="bulletin_body" id="bulletin_body" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 700px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="flexible-abe-main-table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; padding-bottom: 20px; padding-top: 20px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393550" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-070bd15b-4fab-4460-b90d-b254ed807e83" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393551" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-72f5ea85-194b-4513-b277-6a5c9fc07534" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-72f5ea85-194b-4513-b277-6a5c9fc07534-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 align="right" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: right;"><strong>NOVEMBER 2023</strong></h3></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393553" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#E3F2FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-69bd8185-cde1-4747-9dd2-df5031f18110"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393554" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-03d54ee9-9eca-44cd-972c-72c623ecf270" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-03d54ee9-9eca-44cd-972c-72c623ecf270-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #2176ae; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393556" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-ea103464-0efd-445f-a450-a915ecc9979f" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393557" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-44e99a85-bba4-4e8f-aef3-db58af711c5c" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-44e99a85-bba4-4e8f-aef3-db58af711c5c-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;"><strong>MCDOT NEWS</strong></h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="leafing33" class="govd_template_image" height="190" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2017/10/1595291/5079927/15snm_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 285px;" width="285" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Begins Leaf Vacuum Collection in Specific Areas</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT began its annual leaf vacuuming program on Monday, Nov. 6, and will continue collections through December in specified areas. There will be two collections on each collection district street.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The leaf vacuum collection district is bounded by I-495; I-270; the Rockville City limits; Norbeck, Bel Pre and Bonifant roads; Northwest Branch Park; and the District of Columbia and Prince George’s County lines.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Before collection begins in a neighborhood, MCDOT will post signs along streets directing residents to the online leaf collection map for collection information. The map and collection information can also be found online on the MCDOT Leaf Collection <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-highway/leaf/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">webpage</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Residents are asked to pile leaves near the street but off the road. They should avoid placing leaves on road shoulders, curbs, bike lanes and rain gardens as leaves in these areas can disrupt traffic, negatively impact stormwater drainage, hamper snow removal operations and become a fire hazard for automobiles parked over them. Leaf piles in the street also limit the availability of residential parking and, especially when wet, can pose a hazard for cyclists and pedestrians.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">“Last leafing season, crews collected nearly 114,000 cubic yards of leaves,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “The leaves are mulched and composted at a local facility and sold as a popular fertilizer called Leafgro, which is sold in area hardware stores. Profits generated by these sales go back into the leafing program, reducing the cost to affected residents.”</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44249&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="bikedrivesuccess2022" class="govd_template_image" height="242" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/10/6602604/5079928/bikedrive2022sm_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 288px;" width="288" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">Montgomery County Bike Drive Collects Nearly 300 Bicycles</h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is connecting people in the County who have a bike to donate with people who need one. On Friday, Oct. 20, MCDOT collected 290 bicycles at its annual one-day bike collection event in Rockville. MCDOT sponsored the collection of child and adult bikes in partnership with <a href="https://www.rockvillebikehub.org/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Rockville Bike Hub</a> and <a href="https://www.bikesfortheworld.org/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bikes for the World</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Volunteers from the organizations will refurbish the bikes and place them with children and adults in need through Bikes for the World, the MCDOT <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/bikeshare/bikematch.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bike Match Program</a> and the <a href="https://www.rockvillemd.gov/321/Terrific-Bicycle-Award" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Rockville Terrific Kids program</a>. This was the fifth year that MCDOT sponsored a bike drive (no events were held during the two years of the COVID-19 health crisis). In those five years, the drives have resulted in the collection of more than 1,050 bikes.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT operates a bike match program year-round through the BikeMatchMoCo program. Bikes donated must be in ready-to-ride condition and should be cleaned and sanitized before drop-off. Residents who wish to donate or receive a bike can do so by filling out the online form on MCDOT’s <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/bikeshare/bikematch.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">BikeMatchMoCo website</a>. Once a donated bike has been matched to a recipient, an MCDOT representative will facilitate the donation and pickup. The bike donation deliveries are conducted separately, and all information is confidential.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/BRT/Resources/Images/brt-system-map-071423.png" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #2176ae; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img align="left" alt="brtflashsystem" class="govd_template_image" height="255" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8502029/5079949/brt-system-map-071423_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 293px;" width="293" /></a><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Receives $2 Million Grant to Conduct Bus Rapid Transit Study That Will Serve as Blueprint for Washington Metropolitan Region</h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT has been awarded a $2 million grant by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/technical-assistance/regional-infrastructure-accelerators-program" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Regional Infrastructure Accelerators (RIA) program</a> to support the expansion of the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)</a> network in the County through a new research partnership with the University of Maryland.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Administered by the <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">USDOT Build America Bureau</a>, RIA provides funding for research of best practices in project planning, studies and analysis, preliminary engineering and design. The project will serve as a blueprint for the region.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems are part of a national movement toward upgraded bus systems focused on faster, more convenient and reliable bus services. BRTs are known to have limited-stop bus service implemented along set routes in metropolitan areas across the U.S. and worldwide. Flash is Montgomery County’s BRT system and includes plans for a network of eight fixed routes. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The high-frequency service is designed to get people to their destination faster, and less expensively, than by car. Flash corridors spur development as businesses and housing tend to spring up along BRT routes creating or fortifying vibrant mixed-use communities. The lines will support a high level of mobility, connecting communities throughout the County. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Funding from the grant will be used to research and establish best practices in financing and project planning for the expansion of the Flash BRT corridors in Montgomery County.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44210&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="Ride On Reimagined" class="govd_template_image" height="287" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/09/6402556/5079950/rideonreimagined-1080x1080-01_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 287px;" width="287" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Continues Ride On Reimagined Efforts</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/reimagined/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Reimagined Study</a> is a comprehensive, forward-looking assessment of Montgomery County’s transportation network. This study is taking an in-depth look at the County’s existing and planned transit systems, including Metrobus and the Purple Line. Through data analysis and community engagement, the study will provide recommendations for system-wide bus service changes, including Ride On and Metrobus routes operating in Montgomery County, to address the current and future needs of the community. The final report will be released early next year.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Please consider providing feedback on ways transportation changes will better impact you and your community, online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/reimagined/feedback.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a> through Wednesday, Nov. 15.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.67em 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">MCDOT PROMOTES SAFETY</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="daylightsavings-drivinginevening" class="govd_template_image" height="270" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8499956/5082337/driving-eveningtime_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 284px;" width="284" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">It's Getting Darker Earlier; Use Caution While Traveling</h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Getting darker earlier raises <a href="https://www.nsc.org/road/safety-topics/driving-at-night?" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">safety risks</a> for pedestrians and bicyclists. As the days become shorter, with less daylight, it's important that drivers take extra caution while commuting. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Past records show that two-thirds of all fatal pedestrian injuries over the last four years occurred between dusk and dawn.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Deer tend to be more active at dawn and dusk as well, especially during the fall season. Reduce your speed at night and use high-beam headlights when other cars are not approaching.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">To address the changing conditions, MCDOT continues to make infrastructure upgrades such as streetlights and crosswalks to make streets safer for all users and urges residents to <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Images/PedSafety/SS2safetytips.png" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">look out for each other</a> and obey the rules of the road.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="watchoutfordeer" class="govd_template_image" height="317" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8507287/5082338/adobestock-259682802-originalee_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 286px;" width="286" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Here’s What to Do if You Hit a Deer with Your Vehicle</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Deer activity typically increases during the autumn season as the animals primarily mate and migrate in the months of October, November and December.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">If you hit a deer:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Move your vehicle to a safe location off the road.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Make sure to turn on your hazard lights.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Inspect your vehicle for damage.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Use flares or reflective warning devices to alert other drivers to your vehicle.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Note important information and photograph damage for insurance.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Report the crash to the police.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/aaa-urging-maryland-drivers-to-excercise-caution-during-deer-mating-season/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393565" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-75a34c26-8183-4997-8c9a-2c50c0e75cbb" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393566" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-df6f14f7-5946-456d-9ece-4d6733fe93d1" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-df6f14f7-5946-456d-9ece-4d6733fe93d1-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="visionzeroambass" class="govd_template_image" height="331" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5756277/5082339/vz-header2_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 286px;" width="286" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County High School Students Can Apply to MCDOT's ‘Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors’ Program to Improve Traffic Safety</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is seeking Montgomery County high school students to serve as Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors. The project-based learning program teaches teens leadership skills, the importance of roadway design, law enforcement, outreach and engagement techniques to address traffic safety needs in their community. Applications are being accepted from Monday, Nov. 13, through Friday, Dec. 15.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Interested public, private and home-schooled high school students can learn about the program and apply <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-pedsafety/VZYA/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The program supports the County’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Vision Zero Initiative</a>, whose goal is to eliminate traffic-related severe injuries and deaths. Youth Ambassadors have an opportunity to help the County work toward the goal by becoming road safety leaders in their communities while earning up to 35 Student Service Learning credits. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393568" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d1d7e244-b376-41e1-99c6-8c37dcc75ad9" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393569" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-37338b56-a990-49e2-b32e-b5d399843283" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-37338b56-a990-49e2-b32e-b5d399843283-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393572" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-b2006f71-4236-43c1-bf47-bbbbd9b88666" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-b2006f71-4236-43c1-bf47-bbbbd9b88666-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393575" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-4858e7a9-3c30-4012-b105-e08e3f1caf77" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-4858e7a9-3c30-4012-b105-e08e3f1caf77-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393578" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-4f0a981e-1b18-418f-9429-3ee1ff173958" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393579" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0b8d484a-2084-4238-8bb1-14981562f536" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0b8d484a-2084-4238-8bb1-14981562f536-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="SSRTSpedsafety outreach" class="govd_template_image" height="339" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500196/5082340/pedsafetyoutreach2023333_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 286px;" width="286" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Invite MCDOT’s Pedestrian Safety Team to Your Event</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Ped Safety and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SRTS/home.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Safe Routes to School</a> teams are busy throughout the year attending events around the County to share important walking, biking and driving safety information in fun and engaging ways.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT would love to join your next school or community event. Tell us more about your event via this brief form <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.seamlessdocs.com/f/okbq97aco32m" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393581" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-8666f250-58f1-4c29-8922-7564d31ee132" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393582" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-44434998-f5a5-4448-865a-9fe106f23352" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-44434998-f5a5-4448-865a-9fe106f23352-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">MCDOT PUBLIC MEETINGS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="oldcolumbiapike44" class="govd_template_image" height="182" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500289/5079712/oldcolumbiapikemeeting_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Hybrid Public Meeting on the Old Columbia Pike / Prosperity Drive Improvements Project in White Oak to be Held on Tuesday, Nov. 14</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 6:30 p.m., MCDOT will hold a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44171&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">hybrid public meeting</a> to discuss the latest progress of the Old Columbia Pike / Prosperity Drive Improvements project in White Oak. The on-site meeting will be held in the Community Lounge of the White Oak Community Recreation Center located at 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20904. The public will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide comments.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZLPFvHo8Lq1DoHSGxMGwscdUNTVDUllPUTAyTE5EM1VJNzlXNjFNUllSVC4u" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Online registration</a> is required to attend virtually. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393594" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-9e327933-b335-47ba-83b1-5a6201031041" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393595" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-7e817998-af04-48b9-a90c-15779c6a3425" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-7e817998-af04-48b9-a90c-15779c6a3425-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="statesidedr" class="govd_template_image" height="170" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500304/5079713/statessidedrivemeeting_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Hybrid Public Meeting on Silver Spring’s Stateside Drive Sidewalk Project for Joann Leleck Elementary School to be Held on Tuesday, Nov. 14</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Tuesday, Nov. 14, starting at 6:30 p.m., the MCDOT will hold a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44276&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">hybrid public meeting</a> to discuss the construction of sidewalks adjacent to Joann Leleck Elementary School within the Oakview community on Stateside Drive from Avenel Road to Stateside Court.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The sidewalk project was initiated by MCDOT’s Safe Routes to School program to provide a safe route for students walking and biking to Joann Leleck Elementary School. MCDOT encourages you to attend, share your input and provide any suggestions that may better reflect your community’s needs.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/53ee393b-9d80-4450-9f51-4076b246ba78@6e01b1f9-b1e5-4073-ac97-778069a0ad64" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Online registration</a> is required to attend virtually.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393598" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-be43a487-eed7-4382-a5df-cbee52208003" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-be43a487-eed7-4382-a5df-cbee52208003-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="shadygrvproject" class="govd_template_image" height="173" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500234/5079714/shadygrovelayout2-1_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT’s Shady Grove Road Bikeway and Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project in Gaithersburg</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Monday, Nov. 6, MCDOT held a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44213&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">virtual public meeting</a> to discuss the project scope, details and projected schedule. The public has until Monday, Nov. 20 to ask questions and provide feedback through this <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZLPFvHo8Lq1DoHSGxMGwscdURDRNNEQ3Rk5aT05LQUxYNzhSNVlXVEs2TC4u" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">online comment form</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The project provides for a facility planning study to enhance safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and people with disabilities as they travel to nearby schools and facilities. The project will also address intersection safety and traffic calming using signage and pavement markings as well as side paths, separated bike lanes and other traffic calming methods. Public input is encouraged and may influence the design of this project. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393601" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a600a91a-1dd4-4eb3-ab29-865ef9996c3a" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a600a91a-1dd4-4eb3-ab29-865ef9996c3a-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="germantownmultimodal4" class="govd_template_image" height="173" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8502083/5079955/germantownmultimodal5_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Accepting Public Feedback on the Wisteria Drive Germantown Multimodal Improvement Study</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Wednesday, Nov. 8 MCDOT held a hybrid <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44244&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">public information meeting.</a> Additional comments are being accepted through Dec. 8</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">This is a facility planning <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/GermantownMultimodal/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">study of multimodal improvements</a>, such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, safety and connectivity improvements, access improvements to nearby bus stops and the Germantown MARC train station in Germantown.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">This project will evaluate the safety needs of pedestrians and cyclists, as well as facilitate connectivity and access improvements such as sidewalks, bike lanes and bus stops. Residents can provide feedback through this online <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZCHuBxSPIctJgcgbxDrbdZNUMjhQTVlUWjdIUjdHRUQyS085UTBHMDhRSS4u" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">comment form</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393604" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-7e088e0b-4fa3-4940-847e-ddb6adcec09c" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393605" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d4e933c0-796f-469f-b14b-be868a5e4887" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d4e933c0-796f-469f-b14b-be868a5e4887-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="hertiagetriangletrail" class="govd_template_image" height="285" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500433/5079956/heritagtriangle_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 287px;" width="287" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Virtual Public Hearing on the Heritage Triangle Trail Project in Sandy Spring to be Held on Tuesday, Nov. 28</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On Tuesday, Nov. 28, starting at 7 p.m., MCDOT will hold a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44282&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">virtual public hearing</a> to discuss the latest plans for the Heritage Triangle Trail Project in Sandy Spring. The public will have an opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Heritage Triangle Trail is a project to improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety along Dr. Bird (MD. 182) and Norwood Roads. Public input is encouraged and may influence the design of this project.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/g/EQ2sHBf5su" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Online registration </a>is required to attend virtually. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="ridewithus46" class="govd_template_image" height="286" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8502092/5079957/riderideon_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 288px;" width="288" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT to Hold In-Person Public Forum on Changes to Bus Route 76, Impacting Quince Orchard High School Bus Stop</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is holding an in-person meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 5 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Quince Orchard High School cafeteria located at 15800 Quince Orchard Road in Gaithersburg. MCDOT is proposing to <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Files/Public%20Forum%20Notice_Route%2076%20FINAL%20V2.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">change the Route 76</a> pick-up and drop-off location.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393607" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-7923b3ca-cf67-44e4-bc1a-13c15232b926" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393608" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-968aaded-d9af-4ec6-ba48-0bc70286e304" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-968aaded-d9af-4ec6-ba48-0bc70286e304-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">JOIN OUR TEAM</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="hiring" class="govd_template_image" height="153" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8503836/5081855/hiringmcdotscr_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 285px;" width="285" /><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">hiring </a>for the following positions:</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Parking</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC60043 Public Service Worker III</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC57387 Capital Projects Manager</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Transportation Engineering</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC60306 Manager III </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC60105 Manager III </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC57961 Capital Projects Manager</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Transit</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC60020 Transit System Information Systems Technician</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59961 Senior Transit Information Systems Technician</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59613 Transit Analyst</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>Traffic Engineering and Operations</strong></p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC60108 Transportation Systems Technician</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59982 Work Force Leader III</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59559 Engineer Technician I/II</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59483 Traffic Management Technician I / II</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59484 Engineer III/II/I (Fiber - Telecom)</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC59447 Engineer Technician I/II (Sign & Marking Shop)</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC58960 Senior Engineer</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC58781 Senior Planning Specialist</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">IRC58678 Transportation Systems Technician I/II/III</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">For details on the above job postings search "Transportation" or the IRC number online <a href="https://ex12.montgomerycountymd.gov/ojn1/ijn1/OA_HTML/RF.jsp?function_id=14301&resp_id=23350&resp_appl_id=800&security_group_id=0&lang_code=US" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393611" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-6846ce33-892b-4f6a-b703-b249d7ad48bd" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393612" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d1b50bd2-1724-45af-b18e-1a3e77d78210" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d1b50bd2-1724-45af-b18e-1a3e77d78210-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393617" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0f2d55f6-0d1a-4bba-9249-6921332798d5" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0f2d55f6-0d1a-4bba-9249-6921332798d5-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393622" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-134c5ac8-0103-4a3d-a7a4-168b424ac960" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-134c5ac8-0103-4a3d-a7a4-168b424ac960-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393627" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-a17a57f6-5ca7-4564-bb54-7591385f46f0" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393628" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0810ca7e-377c-4322-95a8-6079f8977738" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0810ca7e-377c-4322-95a8-6079f8977738-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="rideonnewhires" class="govd_template_image" height="212" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500443/5081854/oct2023new-bus-operators_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 283px;" width="283" /><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong>MCDOT Welcomes New Ride On Bus Operators</strong></p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is continually hiring and training new bus operators. Bus drivers are instrumental to transportation access. Residents depend on them to get where they are going and provide a watchful eye.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The latest class of Ride On bus operators graduated on Friday, Oct. 13. MCDOT’s Bus Operator training is a 6-week course that covers a variety of topics. In order to pass the course, aspiring operators must successfully complete a "Skills Pad" driving course and master customer service skills.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Congratulations to the recent graduates. MCDOT is appreciative of the work that all our operators do to provide the best transportation service in the region.</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Brian Johnson</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Maryam Bilaal-Gray</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Robert Cathron</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Donald Washington</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Byran Greenlee</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Stafford Owens</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Richard Bright</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bereket Kelbore</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Calvin Parker</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Sabir Lynch</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Fernando Allen, Jr.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Jerome Brown</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Salima Randall</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Tilahun Faris</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Wisdom Adoble</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Imal Lama</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Alemayehu Weldeamanuel</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393630" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0b87aaa1-5a69-4409-8bb3-60e56706a595" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393631" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-3a1fa5f5-9dae-4b56-8aec-d798d2444904" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-3a1fa5f5-9dae-4b56-8aec-d798d2444904-padding" style="border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">COUNTY NEWS</h1></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393634" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-221e1acc-e345-428e-9607-5e626bdae1b5" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393635" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-072b9a59-73cd-466b-ab8c-d3c35ee9519c" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-072b9a59-73cd-466b-ab8c-d3c35ee9519c-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393639" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-455a2012-50c4-4ae0-b879-0350d255fc26" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-455a2012-50c4-4ae0-b879-0350d255fc26-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="amerlegion-270" class="govd_template_image" height="248" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500589/5079723/alb-corridor-5-edited_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Public Meetings to Discuss American Legion Bridge and I-270 Corridor</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a href="https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/newsroomdetails.aspx?newsId=727&PageId=38" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Maryland Department of Transportation announces</a> a series of open house meetings to engage the public on the American Legion Bridge and 270 Corridor Program and gather community feedback as the program advances. The meetings provide the opportunity for corridor travelers, project neighbors and other stakeholders to directly engage with the program team on potential multimodal transportation solutions for the corridor.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The open houses in Montgomery County will take place at:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Monday, Nov. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, 4301 East-West Highway, Bethesda. Transit Accessible: WMATA Red Line, Bethesda Station; Metrobus J2; Ride On routes 29, 32, 34, 47, 70.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Wednesday, Nov. 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m., DoubleTree Hotel, 620 Perry Parkway, Gaithersburg. Transit Accessible: Ride On routes 54, 55, 56, 59, 61.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The same information will be available at each meeting. There will not be a formal presentation. Meeting materials are available at <a href="http://www.americanlegionbridge270.com/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">americanlegionbridge270.com</a>. The public is strongly encouraged to participate.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393645" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-ab5a3cb5-d4fe-4028-bc2d-3079c8c7ac2b" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393646" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-31b097a2-dc00-45ec-945f-497bbb8efd59" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-31b097a2-dc00-45ec-945f-497bbb8efd59-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="elecmc" class="govd_template_image" height="271" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500694/5079724/electrifyevery_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Electrify MC is LIVE</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protections provides residents with a one-stop option to help them electrify their homes.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/green/energy/electrify-mc.html#:~:text=Electrify%20MC%20is%20a%20pilot,help%20them%20electrify%20their%20homes." rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Electrify MC</a> is a pilot program providing home energy audits, recommendations for electrification add-ons, and direct installations using the financial incentives available through the program. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="norfolkreopens" class="govd_template_image" height="203" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500699/streeteryreopens1_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Norfolk Avenue Streetery Reopens to Vehicle Traffic in Bethesda (Photos)</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Norfolk Avenue Streetery's barricades and outdoor dining seating were temporarily removed for the winter season and reopened to vehicular traffic in Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metered street parking has also resumed on both sides of the roadway. The Bethesda Urban Partnership, who manages the space, will return the Streetery in the spring</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393647" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c555882e-19f2-439c-8af2-8691ee027e62" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c555882e-19f2-439c-8af2-8691ee027e62-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="evcharge" class="govd_template_image" height="270" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500599/ev_original.gif" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Results of Community EV Charging Survey</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Earlier this year, DEP surveyed the public about community EV charging. Nearly 600 respondents provided input on how Montgomery County should expand publicly accessible EV charging, including what locations, charging experiences, and help is most valuable. Learn more about the survey results on <a href="https://mygreenmontgomery.org/2023/montgomery-county-reports-community-electric-vehicle-charging-survey/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">My Green Montgomery</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="budget77" class="govd_template_image" height="202" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8503850/5082460/opbudget_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>County Executive Elrich’s Next ‘Community Conversation’ on Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget on Monday, Nov. 13, Will Focus on Silver Spring Area</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, along with the County’s regional services offices and community partners, is hosting a series of “<a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/10/county-executive-elrichs-next-community.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Community Conversations</a>” to seek input on the Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget. The next conversation will be from 7-8:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 13 at the Silver Spring Civic Building. Learn more here</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393648" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-354847d6-ccae-4476-8409-44f42896efcd" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393649" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-4d1b169b-6e2b-4833-85dd-a648c66d92cb" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-4d1b169b-6e2b-4833-85dd-a648c66d92cb-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393652" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-6638d9e3-4f56-4446-9870-56ca990c72dd" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-6638d9e3-4f56-4446-9870-56ca990c72dd-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393655" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d0c2c6fc-9ae7-4599-9f74-05139e7d950b" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d0c2c6fc-9ae7-4599-9f74-05139e7d950b-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393658" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0f7cddaa-a5cc-4f80-8ce4-d289a8cb8169" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393659" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-502d1a35-4157-408e-8833-2af227a4aad4" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-502d1a35-4157-408e-8833-2af227a4aad4-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">HOLIDAY NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="monsterflash445x575" class="govd_template_image" height="371" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8361412/monsterflashmd_original.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 287px;" width="287" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MonsterFlash and Ped Safety Celebrate Halloween</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Monster Flash bus made an appearance this Halloween at the annual Germantown 5<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span> Police and Fire Station and HalloWheaton.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The bus was decorated on the inside with fun monsters, spider webs, lights and more. Families enjoyed walking through the festive bus and learning about the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash Bus Rapid Transit</a> system that is planned across the county. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Special thanks to the 5<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span> District Police & Fire Stations, and the Wheaton Urban District for having us! View photos of Monster Flash at these events <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcdotphotos/albums/72177720312477842" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393662" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-86b76ca5-a01a-4848-a6cc-abf429e77a8a" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393663" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a1383d87-428b-4924-b3ac-8cb6b648ba55" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a1383d87-428b-4924-b3ac-8cb6b648ba55-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="veteransdy4" class="govd_template_image" height="196" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500747/5079728/1000-f-227564254-9xgbvjhlmoqrbtfcgkkds7pivn65ta6s_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Transportation Schedule for the Veterans Day Holiday, Nov. 10-11</strong> </h3><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT - Closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On bus service - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/SpecialHoliday.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Holiday </a>schedule on Nov. 10; Saturday schedule on Nov. 11. </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On extRa and Flex bus services - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/SpecialHoliday.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Holiday</a> schedule on Nov. 10; not in service on Nov. 11.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Flash bus service - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/flash-orange.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Orange Route</a> operates on a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Files/timetables/FLASH_OrangeWeekendHoliday_May2022v2.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Weekend and Holiday</a> schedule.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS commuter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">store</a> at Silver Spring Transit Center - Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 10; closed Nov. 11.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS mobile commuter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">store</a> - Closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public parking in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/faq/holidays.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Free</a>.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="Rideonbussnowvertical" class="govd_template_image" height="291" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/01/7052495/5079729/rockvillerideonsnow2_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Take Ride On Bus to Winter Events in Montgomery County</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">View a list of holiday happenings from music performances to community gatherings <a href="https://moco360.media/2023/10/30/winter-events-in-montgomery-county/?utm_source=MoCo360&utm_campaign=843425f938-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2023_110123&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-ff9e6fedd5-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=843425f938&mc_eid=62dd1cde01" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Take the Ride On bus! Use the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Trip Planning app</a> to find a bus stop near you.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393667" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-04464f83-94b0-4cae-8d48-921b3a948c2a" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-04464f83-94b0-4cae-8d48-921b3a948c2a-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="thanksgiving234" class="govd_template_image" height="196" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8507371/5082342/thanksgiving23_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Transportation Schedule for the Thanksgiving Holiday, Nov. 25</strong></h3><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT - Closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On bus service - Sunday schedule. View bus schedules <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On extRa and Flex bus services - Not in service.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ride On Flash bus service - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/flash-orange.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Orange Route</a> operates on a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Files/timetables/FLASH_OrangeWeekendHoliday_May2022v2.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Weekend and Holiday</a> schedule.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS commuter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">store</a> at Silver Spring Transit Center - Closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">TRiPS mobile commuter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">store</a> - Closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public parking in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/faq/holidays.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Free</a>.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 243.014px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="zealthanksgivingparade" class="govd_template_image" height="253" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/12/5248375/5079731/zealssthanksgiving_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT to Participate in Montgomery County’s Thanksgiving Parade at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring on Saturday, Nov. 18</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a href="https://silverspringdowntown.com/montgomery-county-thanksgiving-parade" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade</a> will usher in the holiday season in Downtown Silver Spring. The <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44290" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">parade</a> kicks off at 10 a.m. for one mile along Ellsworth Drive, to and along Georgia Avenue, ending at Spring Street. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Come out and enjoy the marching bands, dancing groups, glittering floats and special appearances by Santa and his elves. Be sure to watch out for MCDOT’s Flash bus, Mobile Commuter Store and Zeal the pedestrian safety Zebra!</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393671" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#C9E6FF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-5e574a40-608f-47fa-831a-76882b8014f6" style="background-color: #c9e6ff;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393672" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-1a8d11e2-e5bd-4abd-967d-b25790d5dfab" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-1a8d11e2-e5bd-4abd-967d-b25790d5dfab-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="norfolkstreetery" class="govd_template_image" height="236" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200953/5082806/norfolkstreeterypotrait_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 183px;" width="183" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Winter Wonderland Returns Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Norfolk Avenue Streetery in Downtown Bethesda</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Celebrate the holiday season with Santa Claus, live ice sculpting, live music, face painting, games and more. Be sure to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.bethesda.org/bethesda/winter-wonderland" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Winter Wonderland</a> takes place from 1 - 4 p.m. on Norfolk Avenue, between St. Elmo and Cordell Streets. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="greenlight" class="govd_template_image" height="132" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500584/5082807/op-green-light-2_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 184px;" width="184" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Veterans Day Approaches on Saturday, Nov. 11: County Joins ‘Operation Green Light,’ Ceremonies Will be Held as Tribute to County Veterans</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">As Veterans Day approaches on Saturday, Nov. 11, Montgomery County has joined the national “Operation Green Light” salute to veterans.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">The program asks for displays of a green light, from Nov. 6-12, in a window of businesses or residences to honor veterans. From Nov. 6-12, Montgomery County’s Memorial Plaza, which is located adjacent to the County Executive Building at 101 Monroe St. in Rockville, will be lit with green lights.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Learn more <a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/10/veterans-day-approaches-on-saturday-nov_25.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="thanksgivingdontdrinkanddrive" class="govd_template_image" height="285" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8500809/thanksgiving-buzzed-onthemenu-1000x500-original_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 570px;" width="570" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Reminds Residents to Plan Out Their Evenings This Thanksgiving Holiday & Never Drink and Drive</h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">During the Thanksgiving weekend, millions will hit our nation's roads, eager to gather with family and friends. It’s one of the busiest travel times of the year and the most dangerous. More people on the roadways means the potential for more vehicle crashes. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving Eve, – has also been known as one of the deadliest nights of the year due to heavy consumption of alcohol. </p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Nationally, from 2017-2021, 832 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes during the entire Thanksgiving holiday period (6 p.m. the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through 5:59 a.m. the Monday after Thanksgiving).</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Nationally, in 2021 there were 13,384 fatalities in alcohol-impaired motor vehicle traffic crashes, accounting for 31% of all traffic fatalities.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Follow these National Highway Traffic Safety Administration <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">tips</a>:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Don't risk it.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Plan ahead. If you don't have a designated driver, contact a friend or family member, use public transportation, a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">If you see a suspected drunk driver on the road call 9-1-1 to report the driver to authorities. It could save lives.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Never let family or friends drive if they have had too much alcohol to drink. </li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393674" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-73e24b2c-e1e2-47fa-9d77-f2b53d5ca914" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393675" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-795e30aa-0a45-44e7-b82e-5d538dfdd23f" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-795e30aa-0a45-44e7-b82e-5d538dfdd23f-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">MCDOT MAINTAINING THE INFRASTRUCTURE</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="hybridpedbeacons33" class="govd_template_image" height="190" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8362532/5079733/pedbeacons345_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT is Making Montgomery County Safer</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT is responsible for building and maintaining infrastructure along County-owned roadways including sidewalks, traffic control devices and building dedicated bike lanes. The department built seven miles of sidewalk last year, installed about 20 hybrid pedestrian beacons and continues to add to the County’s 108 miles of protected bike lanes. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393677" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-0a0bf9e1-6247-4f2a-a029-c914c8ff960c" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393678" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-a24559d2-a645-4ad1-a2e4-049b56745ddf" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 400px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-a24559d2-a645-4ad1-a2e4-049b56745ddf-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="treesplant" class="govd_template_image" height="309" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/07/4781051/pruningmcdot_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Manages the County’s Tree Canopy</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT Division of Highway Services maintains over 250,000 trees in the dedicated county right of way and another 200,000 in rural areas. Any tree growing in a street right-of-way is a county-maintained tree. Note that it is not always obvious where the street right-of-way ends and private property begins. The line can be several feet into a front yard beyond the edge of the sidewalk or street. </p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/Solutions.aspx?SolutionId=1-EBMIV" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Request to Plant a Street Tree Online</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="http://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/SolutionView.aspx?SolutionId=1-2HKWQH" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Request to Inspect, Remove, or Prune County Trees online</a></li></ul><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Primary/Arterial Roads Resurfacing Program</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">New and current <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/roadmaint/Pavement_Management/Primary_Arterial/primaryarterialresurfacingprograms.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">projects</a> include:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Brink%20Road.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Brink Road</a>, Germantown</p></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><p style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/MacArthur%20Boulevard(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MacArthur Boulevard</a>, Potomac</p></li></ul><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Sidewalk & Curb/Gutter Repair Replacement Program</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">New and current <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/concrete/concreteschedule.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">projects</a> include:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Manor%20Lake.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Manor Lake Subdivision</a>, Rockville</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Kemp%20Mill%20Estates%20Phase%20I.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kemp Mill Estates Phase I</a>, Silver Spring</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Father Hurley Boulevard, Germantown</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Spartan Road, Olney</li></ul><img alt="snowplowsmcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="231" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2020/12/3958094/5079734/snow-pics-2014-003_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Prepares for the Winter Season</strong> </h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT staff and crews conducted a mock snowstorm event to test out MCDOT Highway Service’s snowplow tracking system to ensure readiness for the winter season. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393687" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-3d38d96a-7de5-4e5f-9178-3d81109fb8b6" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-3d38d96a-7de5-4e5f-9178-3d81109fb8b6-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="paving-mcdot2023" class="govd_template_image" height="149" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777465/5079735/twinnbrook-pkwy-bus-pad-under-construction-photo_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Residential Roadway Repair Program</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">New and current <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/roadmaint/Pavement_Management/Residental/ResidentialResurfaingindex.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">projects</a> include:</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Aspen Hill</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Allanwood%20Subdivision.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Allanwood Subdivision</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Bethesda</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Hillmead%20Road%20(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Hillmead Road</a></li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Sumner%20Phase%20I%20-%20Rehab%20-2021_61.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Sumner Phase I</a> </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Sumner%20Phase%20II%20-%20Rehab%20-2021_62.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Sumner Phase II</a> </li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Colesville</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Oak%20Springs%20Phase%20II%20(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Oak Spring Phase II</a></li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Gaithersburg</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Goshen Hunt Hills Subdivision</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Lindstrom Court</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Potomac/Rockville</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ashleigh Subdivision</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Prospect Drive</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Silver Spring</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Forest%20Glen%20Investment%20Co.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Forest Glen Investment Co. Subdivision</a> </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Randolph%20Hills.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Randolph Hills Subdivision</a> </li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Tanglewood%20Rehab%202022_6_13%20DRAFT.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Tanglewood Subdivision</a> </li></ul><img alt="pave-mill-excavate" class="govd_template_image" height="328" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8499842/5079736/pavemillex_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393693" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-25677f9c-b52c-4b25-9f1c-7d289528d612" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393694" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-4b4d5f53-4eff-4995-b51b-4194d3651b3b" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-4b4d5f53-4eff-4995-b51b-4194d3651b3b-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="182"><img alt="washinggarage" class="govd_template_image" height="184" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8509079/garagewash-original_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Wraps up Garage Washing and Degreasing This Month</strong> </h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT concluded garage washing at Silver Spring garages on Saturday, Nov. 4. This includes the completion of the <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43860&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">annual cleaning</a> of all its County-owned parking garages in Wheaton and Bethesda.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">These efforts work to remove grease and oil that would otherwise end up in our waterways.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393696" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-bcbaa661-c8f0-4af3-88bc-0f6e71af0a20" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393697" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-6b2ff680-6007-413b-b3f0-4f6f3a8d8b4b" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-6b2ff680-6007-413b-b3f0-4f6f3a8d8b4b-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="garage-light" class="govd_template_image" height="251" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8509107/5082696/bethesdagaragelightinstallg36-original_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Replaces LED Lights in Wheaton Market Place Lot 13</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT completed the installation of LED lights in <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html#collapseThree" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Wheaton Market Place Lot 13</a> in Wheaton in mid-October. LED lights use at least 75% less energy, and last up to 25 times longer, than regular lighting. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393701" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-80d06d8a-c208-4cf8-b23f-8f339863e8c3" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-80d06d8a-c208-4cf8-b23f-8f339863e8c3-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="gAR" class="govd_template_image" height="251" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8509113/5082697/garage16b-original_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Completes King-13th Street Garage (Garage 16) Painting</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">MCDOT completed painting in <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html#collapseSeven" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Garage 16</a> (between King and 13th Street Garage) in Silver Spring on Wednesday, Oct. 25. On Monday, Sept. 18 crews began work on Levels G1 and G2 power washed walls and floors and applied two coats of paint and striping. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393705" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-e25ebc6b-1048-4da2-b041-92175c5aaaf6" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393706" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-cd1d0873-21f8-4ed2-b919-cc0833bc01e2" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-cd1d0873-21f8-4ed2-b919-cc0833bc01e2-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393708" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-f388c413-3b82-44c2-8a76-ada87160bef5" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393709" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-d4c11311-a1c7-4d11-8d4d-1168d57f2645" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-d4c11311-a1c7-4d11-8d4d-1168d57f2645-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">METRO NEWS</h1></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393712" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-0ccd3dd2-94c0-4a02-9bbb-5020d48d3dfc" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-0ccd3dd2-94c0-4a02-9bbb-5020d48d3dfc-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393715" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-45c673a6-0397-4ebb-b0ef-7d802097f32f" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-45c673a6-0397-4ebb-b0ef-7d802097f32f-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393718" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-24db8b58-3adf-406c-8661-03d1a694f1fd" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393719" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-47d03095-10b5-4075-aa5b-3e1f9fbcc9e8" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-47d03095-10b5-4075-aa5b-3e1f9fbcc9e8-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="right" alt="metrobus-rail" class="govd_template_image" height="379" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5478521/2_original.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 272px;" width="272" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro Closing Four Red Line Stations in December</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">There will be no Red Line service between Dupont Circle and Gallery Place between Monday, Dec.18 and Saturday, Dec.30. The Farragut North and Metro Center upper-level stations will be closed. The service suspension and closures will enable Metro to make critical safety repairs.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">There will be other Red Line service disruptions between Friday, Dec. 22, and Sunday, Dec. 24:</p><ul style="list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 10px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">No Red Line service between Dupont Circle and Union Station.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Judiciary Square station will be closed.</li><li style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">No Red Line service at Gallery Place, and the Gallery Place entrance at Ninth & G Streets NW will be closed.</li></ul><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Free shuttle service will be available. See additional details in the <a href="https://wmata.com/about/news/Metro-releases-details-for-December-Red-Line-service-closure-at-four-stations-ahead-of-holiday-travel.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">press release</a>.</p><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Metro Reminds Customers of This Weekend’s Work Affecting Red, Blue, Silver, and Green Lines</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Metro is reminding customers to plan ahead if traveling on the Red, Blue, Silver, and Green metrorail lines <a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/status/details/weekend.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">this weekend</a> due to planned track and construction work. </p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">On the Red Line, trains will be single-tracking between Medical Center and Grosvenor while crews perform rail renewal and joint elimination to provide customers with a smoother ride. Trains will run every 10 minutes between Friendship Heights and Glenmont, and every 20 minutes between Friendship Heights and Shady Grove. Learn more <a href="https://wmata.com/about/news/Weekend-Service-November-4.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393721" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-16bb60be-993f-4de9-bf5a-a8eb12f231c7" style="background-color: white;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393722" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-c75b2369-5fb2-449a-881e-f2a4942d5083-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393731" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-4d3a8cc9-8afd-41a0-ac58-d08915f4cd2e" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393733" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-b4de3eaf-9fb6-4d49-9bc2-5b6ccea65473" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 600px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-b4de3eaf-9fb6-4d49-9bc2-5b6ccea65473-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0px;">IN THE NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="flashbus2021a" class="govd_template_image" height="191" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/11/5134309/5082341/k6akinadjmi6xojoaklhn6pl5q_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 286px;" width="286" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Transformative Flash Bus Rapid Transit Plan in Montgomery County</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Nationally, there is a movement towards upgraded bus systems that focus on faster, more convenient, and reliable bus services, known as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems. BRTs are known to have limited-stop bus service implemented along set routes in metropolitan areas across the US and worldwide.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash is a planned bus rapid transit network with more than 100 stops along nine routes that will offer high frequency service designed to get people to their destination faster, and less expensively, than by car.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Flash is different from typical bus service in that it is designed to arrive every few minutes and has upgraded amenities. Flash also offers amenities such as level boarding, easy-to-use bike racks on board, and free Wi-Fi and USB charging. The vehicles stop at each of the state-of-the-art stations so there is no need to pull a chord. These projects also bring infrastructure upgrades such as sidewalks and modern bus shelters.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Public transportation plays an important role in the daily lives of Montgomery County residents and visitors, providing access to work, schools, shopping, daily activities, and more. Public transportation projects are also known to boost the local economy, lessen traffic congestion and provide sustainable, hassle-free transportation. Learn more at<br /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr style="vertical-align: top;"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img align="left" alt="rideon buses" class="govd_template_image" height="160" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8240001/5082698/rideon_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 286px;" width="286" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>“Ride On Reimagined” will bring Montgomery County’s Buses Into the 21st Century — If It’s Funded</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Over the last 50 years, Montgomery County’s Ride On bus system has turned itself into the region’s second busiest bus network, only behind Metrobus in terms of ridership. Prior to the pandemic, Ride On carried 68,000 people over 81 routes every day, about 18% of regional bus ridership; currently, ridership is at 60,000 daily according to the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT). And while Ride On has grown dramatically over the past half-century, much of its routing has remained untouched.</p><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">But that is about to change. MCDOT is doing a full-scale reimagining of Ride On. Community outreach has revealed a need for more frequent and reliable service, better cross-county connections, and more flexible service. Below, we outline what those changes could be and how they may impact your ride. Read the Greater Greater Washington article <a href="https://ggwash.org/view/91548/ride-on-reimagined-will-bring-montgomery-countys-buses-into-the-21st-century-if-its-funded#:~:text=MCDOT%20is%20doing%20a%20full,they%20may%20impact%20your%20ride." rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="182"><img alt="ebike45" class="govd_template_image" height="130" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8501344/5082699/ebike_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Your Next Car Could Be an E-Bike</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">“A few years ago, e-bikes were a novelty product. But now, over 50 shops in the DMV area are selling e-bikes,” said Gregory Maassen, the founder of E-Bike Lovers. Read the WTOP article <a href="https://wtop.com/local/2023/10/your-next-car-could-be-an-e-bike/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a></p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="182"><img alt="article-0" class="govd_template_image" height="130" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8501305/5082700/article90_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>When it Comes to Vehicle Travel, Less is More</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Motor vehicle travel provides many benefits, but also imposes large costs on users and communities. With better planning people can drive less, rely more on non-auto modes, enjoy more access, and be better off overall as a result. Read the Planetizen article <a href="https://www.planetizen.com/blogs/126099-when-it-comes-vehicle-travel-less-more" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 513.004px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image" style="vertical-align: top;"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;" width="182"><img alt="article6" class="govd_template_image" height="129" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8501297/5082701/v7q_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 182px;" width="182" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 8px;" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Baltimore Banner: Could the (Baltimore) Red Line Really Become Just a Rapid Bus? It’s Not That Simple</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Though Light Rail was selected (in Baltimore) over Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in the last Record of Decision that Hogan ultimately eliminated, BRT is back on the table again. Read the Baltimore Banner article <a href="https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/community/transportation/red-line-light-rail-rapid-bus-AFJYVHOP4JAOBPSACB3MCRSF5U/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393737" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-d1a3f319-2fac-44f6-bc24-4e2842056d4d" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393738" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-2315c197-ba15-46d6-83f2-092b0f06a7c3" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-2315c197-ba15-46d6-83f2-092b0f06a7c3-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393741" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-796c1c46-0783-4848-8c04-1f9b152f6ec3" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-796c1c46-0783-4848-8c04-1f9b152f6ec3-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393744" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-689d207c-7395-43f2-a427-deed5f663eaa" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-689d207c-7395-43f2-a427-deed5f663eaa-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393747" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-fe9dfc98-224b-4072-ab35-da698cdae499" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393748" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-ad4fa2d2-3d6b-41ff-a698-d8c701332101" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-ad4fa2d2-3d6b-41ff-a698-d8c701332101-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><img alt="article4" class="govd_template_image" height="155" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/11/8501267/article8645_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /><h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0px 10px; padding: 0px;"><strong>EV Tax Credit Will Be Simpler in 2024 With an Instant Rebate at Dealership</strong></h3><p style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">That $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles is getting a makeover: Starting in January, buyers can apply for the credit upfront at the dealership instead of getting the money back when they file their tax returns with the IRS. Read the Marketplace article <a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2023/10/11/ev-tax-credit-can-be-applied-to-car-purchase-january/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="abe-column-block" data-block-id="103393751" data-block-type="FancyBlockColumn" id="abe-column-block-24153a05-8475-4bf7-b2f4-53fd5cadddc9" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 300px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; table-layout: fixed; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td class="abe-column-block-padding" id="abe-column-block-24153a05-8475-4bf7-b2f4-53fd5cadddc9-padding" style="margin: 0px; padding: 15px; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #2176ae; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img alt="callmc311" class="govd_template_image" height="318" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/03/7324306/5079744/mc311-getitdone_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="abe-section-block" data-block-id="103393756" data-block-type="FancyBlockSection" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="abe-section-table" role="presentation" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; max-width: 600px; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr bgcolor="#F5F5F5" class="abe-section-row" id="abe-section-row-23369ec9-6959-47e6-adc7-28befd622cfc" style="background-color: whitesmoke;"><td align="center" style="font-size: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; 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font-size: 0.8em; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 30px 0px; text-align: left; width: 700px;"><div class="powered-by" style="color: #666666; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></div></footer>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-28343010799735061562023-10-13T15:46:00.013-04:002023-10-20T09:59:55.402-04:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter is Now Available! October 2023<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="width: 100%;">
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<h2 align="left" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.83em 0px 10px;"><strong>MCDOT LATEST NEWS </strong></h2>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Child and Adult Used Bicycles Can Be Donated at MCDOT's Annual Bike Drive Event on Friday, Oct. 20, in Rockville</h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="right" alt="bikedrive2018a" class="govd_template_image" height="276" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2018/10/2225250/5025121/img-5482_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 224px;" width="224" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Bicycles that are no longer being used by some can make a big difference for others. MCDOT's annual Bike Drive will make it easy to donate previously owned bikes and ensure they will have a continued impact.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT is sponsoring the collection of child and adult bikes in partnership with <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rockvillebikehub.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=467%2F6rVwwKReRKG44svVRDMHDfmEU%2BFHqWurHKXCiKA%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Rockville Bike Hub</a>. From 7 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, bikes will be collected (rain or shine) outside of the Montgomery County <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fplace%2FE%2BJefferson%2BSt%2B%2526%2BMonroe%2BSt%2C%2BRockville%2C%2BMD%2B20850%2F%4039.0823857%2C-77.148263%2C18z%2Fdata%3D!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b7cd0aa2b49591%3A0xaebb6a4ec37f86ce!8m2!3d39.0819115!4d-77.1492295&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=0spwVPBezmufMbtnp24FjIMLnQyBRjzKw7bfAxMh%2BaU%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Council Office Building Garage at East Jefferson and Monroe Street in Rockville</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Bicycles should be in good working condition or in need of only minor repairs. Rockville Bike Hub volunteers will refurbish the bikes and MCDOT will place them with low-income children and adults in the County through the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot-dir%2Fcommuter%2Fbikeshare%2Fbikematch.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pzjZx7yUqAKUa8X5n8pmw3%2F9ikJTjHOcE75X2WgEwVY%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">MCDOT Bike Match Program</a> or through the Rockville <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rockvillemd.gov%2F321%2FTerrific-Bicycle-Award&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=UlUfNFC2QOGjV1OTZq0Dxl68vbxOR1Dt4XbDfeEzeD4%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Terrific Kids </a>program.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Community members can organize a bike collection at their school, place of worship or within their neighborhood and bring the bikes to Rockville on Oct. 20.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44147&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Montgomery County Calls for Feedback on Conceptual Findings from the Ride On Reimagined Public Transportation Study</h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="left" alt="RideOnReimage" class="govd_template_image" height="219" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/10/6537151/5025122/feakbf6xgai52wi_crop.jpg" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 219px;" width="219" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The ongoing <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvRE9ULVRyYW5zaXQvcmVpbWFnaW5lZC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE4LjgyNzc3MjExIn0.JOnjQXvEbk_uYgill34UQMjP-DB68fvAszvNAfLwQOE%2Fs%2F3026656346%2Fbr%2F226157980378-l&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecTf%2FsJZ5%2FdjKONnH91EScxbyMnz1G1aSIBH%2FXLRYso%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Ride On Reimagined Study</a> is a full-scale re-assessment of how the Montgomery County public transit network will operate in the County, with the goal of creating a future-focused public transportation system.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">New concepts from the study incorporate the planned <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvYnJ0L2luZGV4Lmh0bWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE4LjgyNzc3MjExIn0.78MS77aBlU_Dmi99oIQmtxmB18YtR2rFHZ3H4C_Sa3c%2Fs%2F3026656346%2Fbr%2F226157980378-l&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=BjAmIJVcc8goXjlsIJ5OVTd%2ByKJ6GmpLSrnYL0S9kZs%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Flash bus rapid transit corridors</a>, supplemented by additional frequent high-capacity bus routes and new all-day express service linking Downcounty and Upcounty hubs as well as Tysons in northern Virginia.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Local routes will provide connectivity throughout the county with trips operating at a minimum of every 30 minutes, supplemented by new <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvZG90LXRyYW5zaXQvZmxleC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTE4LjgyNzc3MjExIn0.OqJu-ex0BBy60INMux5lOKgMDwPKibKU2H4OL5RbHIs%2Fs%2F3026656346%2Fbr%2F226157980378-l&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=N3GV6CPnr7jkM6g4EDn%2BMVQFWLFf75GfI7y2ipOa9MQ%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Flex zones</a> to offer on-demand, corner-to-corner service throughout the day.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT has been holding a series of pop-up events to share proposed changes to individual routes and are on:</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot%2Fcalendar.html%3FtrumbaEmbed%3Dview%253Devent%2526eventid%253D170130738&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=UsiTxXpF1Plo23gJcszvTAuMhMSvrSjpciYTa%2BqalR0%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Tuesday, Oct.17</a>. 7–10 a.m. at Silver Spring Transit Center.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot%2Fcalendar.html%3FtrumbaEmbed%3Dview%253Devent%2526eventid%253D170130814&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t24JygYMtheS4y3obW%2BcVhOThweKm%2BwgjONO%2B2kAfdk%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Thursday, Oct. 19</a>. 3–6 p.m. at Wheaton Metro Station.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot%2Fcalendar.html%3FtrumbaEmbed%3Dview%253Devent%2526eventid%253D170130832&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=puBl5M1c%2BFCJnUpN8QWVL%2FcbWY7lqcgz5lLISV7ESks%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Monday, Oct. 23</a>. 3–6 p.m. at Lakeforest Transit Center.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot%2Fcalendar.html%3FtrumbaEmbed%3Dview%253Devent%2526eventid%253D170130837&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185330875%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2GLr0PXm81xqLYfHl5fgZzqE8G7HkhXH8KY55eBgG50%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Wednesday, Oct. 25</a>. 7–10 a.m. at White Oak Transit Center.</li>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Email your feedback to <a href="mailto:rideon.reimagined@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">rideon.reimagined@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>. </p>
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<h2 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.83em 0 10px;">OCTOBER IS WALKTOBER</h2>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Montgomery County Announces 'Walktober' Events to Promote Walking Throughout October</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">MCDOT is partnering with the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mdot.maryland.gov%2Ftso%2Fpages%2Fnewsroomdetails.aspx%3FnewsId%3D713%26PageId%3D38&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185643294%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=IADUWIscu%2F3%2Fqslpi9svSOxA6EYXrrzi6I435yBRv%2B0%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">State of Maryland</a> to celebrate “<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmdot.maryland.gov%2Ftso%2Fpages%2FIndex.aspx%3FPageId%3D136&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Ay%2BHsPXDBr8tfUQwh01T1muiC5jhKfFNqFy%2BUxkM9tU%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Walktober,</a>” a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44094&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">month-long series of activities</a> in October promoting Maryland’s official exercise: walking. Maryland named walking as the official State exercise in 2008. </p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT will be hosting a series of outreach events throughout the County designed to highlight the importance of walking and to promote the work being done under the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fvisionzero%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=OfGNb8jjUIzQ1MCseg0wE3DvV83xFjbkzwIFabbigGI%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Vision Zero</a> program to make walking in Montgomery County safer for people of all ages and abilities.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">“As we experience the cooler fall weather, and the changing of the leaves, it is a great time to go for a walk outdoors,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Walking is great exercise; it provides stress relief and fosters community connectedness. Safe walkways and bike paths are a critical part of our transportation infrastructure. We work to improve and build it out further every year. This is a great opportunity to enjoy it.”</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT will be hosting a series of outreach events throughout the County designed to highlight the importance of walking.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">View some Walktober events below:</h3>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>Register for Walktober’s Free Virtual Equity Walkinar on Thursday, Oct. 26 </strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT’s Bikeways Coordinator, Matt Johnson, will be featured on a State panel for a free webinar to discuss tools and techniques for addressing transportation equity. He will give an overview of Montgomery County’s efforts to develop a toolkit to improve the designs of roads, sidewalks, and transit stops for people with vision disabilities and the planning and design processes to improve their ability to provide feedback. </p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1kb3QubWFyeWxhbmQuZ292L3Rzby9wYWdlcy9JbmRleC5hc3B4P1BhZ2VJZD0xMjMjd2Fsa2luYXI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTAwMy44MzUyODQ4MSJ9.vvHfKCFBkR9U5uf7B9Qfj8S3nKrggStp5MBhczdSUlY%2Fs%2F1838110799%2Fbr%2F227304221475-l&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=yY2UjxCfSkqqBduNiu9%2FJSC37uzvCu2t4Bzt5yAVzTY%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Register</a> for the free Equity webinar. For a full list of free walkinars, visit the Maryland Department of Transportation's website <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mdot.maryland.gov%2Ftso%2Fpages%2FIndex.aspx%3FPageId%3D123&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=hgDBnZBRRqJy0P40QpkwW3f8BTldFYIBKYI0s%2Bg1Cxc%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Celebrated ‘Walk and Roll to School Day’ on Wednesday, Oct. 4</strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT and Vision Zero Initiative partnered for a celebration of the 26th Annual “<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walkbiketoschool.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=9Qz%2BXUPl9504odNA5bg%2Fh%2BpK%2FRf7nUaa5cpiRYlMpR8%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Walk and Roll to School Day</a>” with a fun-filled morning event at Brooke Grove Elementary School in Olney. Portions of the event were streamed live @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FMCDOTNow&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=doHMEyS5f%2FTSNslLA844IHQEMtvAXieCDiLGv1oJDYE%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">X</a> and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FMCDOTNow&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=doHMEyS5f%2FTSNslLA844IHQEMtvAXieCDiLGv1oJDYE%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> social media accounts and video clips from the event are available on MCDOT's YouTube Channel <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F%40MCDOTNow&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=T6vOXRdhV90Svg%2Fe1KA2Hc%2B563leqFDalktfPV0DS88%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>. View event photos <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2F195568163%40N06%2Falbums%2F72177720311684570&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=d0FsDRWjzXu2xPwQ77zrgnNHatWuwvPkXK9Xf%2FqfHrk%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44113&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>Monday, October 16 - November 3 Transportation Management Districts Walk & Ride Group Walking Challenge</strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Employees who work for businesses located within the County’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-DIR%2Fcommuter%2Ftmd%2Findex.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ns158RE2Pe4hYT%2FuHYxAsicl%2FYWi15Ag1tKeaaPHeIY%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">six Transportation Management Districts</a> (Friendship Heights, Silver Spring, Downtown Bethesda, North Bethesda, Greater Shady Grove and White Oak) can register for team walks and compete for prizes based on their step counts. Employees do not need to be physically present at the worksite to be on a Walk & Ride team – and they do not need to be County residents. More information, including how to register, is available on MCDOT’s event website <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Feps-portal-dev.powerappsportals.us%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185799527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=5pUGECbVHtqbpoFyJUo%2FAlkg5eVID2BaaITLdcoIrdA%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h2 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">COMMUNITY OUTREACH & HALLOWEEN SAFETY</h2>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">‘Be Seen on Halloween’ Emphasized for the Halloween Weekend</h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="right" alt="srts halloween" class="govd_template_image" height="225" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/10/6602312/5025126/halloweencampaign-2021-01_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 225px;" width="225" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT wants to ensure that trick-or-treaters have a safe and fun Halloween, particularly since it will be dark during many of the festivities.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nsc.org%2Fcommunity-safety%2Fsafety-topics%2Fseasonal-safety%2Fautumn-safety%2Fhalloween&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=SxybU4E%2BlX5qfixaNRIdGMptW65J9G3oEDS6Cs%2FSloo%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">National Safety Council</a> tells us that children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. It is important that families take extra precautions to “be seen on Halloween”.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The following tips can help keep trick-or-treaters safe:</p>
<ul style="list-style-position: inside; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0;">
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">Drivers should slow down and be alert.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Never drive after consuming alcohol.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Drivers and trick-or-treaters should avoid looking at electronic devices and be aware of their surroundings.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Parents and trick-or-treaters can make themselves more easily seen by carrying glow sticks or flashlights, using reflective tape or stickers on costumes and wearing light colors.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">Trick-or-Treaters should always walk on sidewalks or paths when available.</li>
</ul>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">View more tips <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.safekids.org%2Ftip%2Fhalloween-safety-tips-pdf&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xLqv87ICsvB%2FI1ioRJAPRxPRSlLh2qiuLo4tTAQiSbo%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT wishes you a fun and safe Halloween this year!</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>SoberRide Offers Free Rides The Saturday Before Halloween </strong></h3>
<img alt="soberride" class="govd_template_image" height="220" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2017/10/1619543/5025127/soberridee_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The Washington Region Alcohol Program’s (WRAP) SoberRide program will offer a limited number of codes for a FREE Lyft ride home (up to $15). The SoberRide® code will be posted at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28 at <a href="https://wrap.org/soberride/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">wrap.org/soberride</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Download the Lyft app to your phone and enter the code in the app's 'Promo' section. </p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Sponsors Free Electric Scooter Clinics for Those 18+</strong></h3>
<img alt="scooterclass830x990" class="govd_template_image" height="203" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8362661/5025343/spin-scooterclass830x990_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Participants will be able to take a test ride, learn safety tips and get details on basic scooter laws. Those interested in e-scooters can stop in at any time during the clinic between 1 - 3 p.m.</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">Sunday, Oct. 22<br /><em>(Rain date: 10/29)</em><br />Westfield Montgomery Mall (<a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Images/commuter/Bike-EScooterClasses/montmallbikeclass.png" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">former Sears parking lot</a>)<br />7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda<br /><br /></li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">Saturday, Oct. 28<br /><em>(Rain date: 11/4)</em><br />Montgomery College (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/850+Hungerford+Dr,+Rockville,+MD+20850/@39.0947189,-77.1597422,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cd7a9ac4236f:0xa8b963949d2b5746!8m2!3d39.0947689!4d-77.1581329!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3z7ssp?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">parking lot 13</a>)<br />850 Hungerford Dr., Rockville.</li>
</ul>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Learn more at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/bikewalk/index.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">tinyurl.com/cycleclss</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Monster Flash Bus at HalloWheaton on Sunday, Oct. 29</strong></h3>
<img alt="monsterflash445x575" class="govd_template_image" height="220" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8361412/5025128/monsterflashmd_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Be sure to visit the Monster Flash bus, a decorated haunted house experience, at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fctycms.com%2Fmd-wheaton%2Fdocs%2Fhallowheaton-23-flyer-finalpdf.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=1rUOGZZqMe271q%2BQoA9bYdfGNVR4XNuw0yogbsR9p8I%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">HalloWheaton</a>, a FREE event on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 12-4 p.m. at the Marian Fryer Town Plaza located at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fplace%2F2424%2BReedie%2BDr%2C%2BWheaton%2C%2BMD%2B20902%2F%4039.038467%2C-77.0526959%2C17.26z%2Fdata%3D!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b7cf1c65f32581%3A0xbaafe16dc8278024!8m2!3d39.0382294!4d-77.051904&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=l8KJzQE73O2Rsf2aWnpNecken9T9gKwAJ1J0v07jUhs%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">2424 Reedie Drive</a> in Wheaton.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">There will be fun for all ages including vendors, crafts projects, lawn games, face painting and more. Learn more <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wheatonmd.org%2Fdo%2Fhallowheaton-2%3F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2akjyGB1unQce%2BLjVBVmOCqiuOwhBoPYROHZTCJDW5s%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Hosts Adult Learn to Ride Bike Classes in November</strong></h3>
<img alt="bikeclass830x990" class="govd_template_image" height="203" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8362658/5025344/bikeclass-830x990_crop.jpeg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">These popular <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-DIR%2Fcommuter%2Fbikewalk%2Findex.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=CKg7cnZc21Rw8kpVcez3%2Favsj0oMPVaOdgPuXbNoka4%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">bike classes are designed for adults</a> aged 18 or older who have never ridden a bike before or who have not ridden for some time.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Advance registration is required to participate in the bicycle classes and costs $10 for Montgomery County residents. There is no charge for WABA or <a href="https://capitalbikeshare.com/pricing/for-all" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Capital Bikeshare For All</a> members.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Bicycles and bike helmets will be provided at no charge. See bike classes below:</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">Sunday, Nov. 5 <a href="https://waba.org/blog/2023/10/adult-learn-to-ride-83/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">GEICO Chevy Chase Building</a><br /><br /></li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">Saturday, Nov. 11 <a href="https://waba.org/blog/2023/10/adult-learn-to-ride-85/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Burtonsville Park & Ride Lot</a></li>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT Promotes Pedestrian Safety the Month of October</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">October has the highest number of pedestrian-involved crashes in Montgomery County and Maryland (Source: Maryland Highway Safety Office).</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The MCDOT <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-PedSafety%2FSRTS%2Fhome.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8FW0%2FcUgNZvURvTX7OjAfbXmpZ%2FJDSoRyUsSmq0DrBc%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Safe Routes to School program</a> will be participating at several family friendly events, giving out safety prizes and promoting <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-pedsafety/index.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">safe walking and biking</a>. View our calendar of events <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot%2Fcalendar.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185487080%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=QlEKsxqygL8WbZFGXI8nAP4jECd2MhUbnOJ%2BX%2Bmpa9Q%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>. </p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>Attention Residents 50+: Free Travel Training Workshop on Thursday, Oct. 9</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Ride Smart Travel Training is a FREE half-day workshop hosted by the <a href="https://accessjca.org/connect-a-ride/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">JCA Connect-A-Ride</a> program designed to help residents aged 50+ gain confidence taking Metrorail and other public transportation.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Participants learn how to read the Metro map, understand digital schedule signs, load a fare card, and quickly find a station’s emergency and accessibility features.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Travel Training includes classroom training; a trip on a Ride On bus; a visit to a Metro station; and a roundtrip train ride. </p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">To register, call 301-738-3252 or email <a href="mailto:connectaride@accessjca.org" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">connectaride@<br />accessjca.org</a>.</p>
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<h2 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT PUBLIC MEETINGS</h2>
<h3 align="left" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px 0px 10px;">MCDOT Holds Community Meetings on School Specific Walkability Studies for Safety Needs of Elementary School Students</h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="right" alt="walkstudy44" class="govd_template_image" height="218" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8352553/5025346/newellst22_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 225px;" width="225" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT will present the findings of two separate elementary school <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SRTS/Resources.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">walkability studies</a>, North Chevy Chase (in Chevy Chase) and New Hampshire Estates (in Silver Spring). Online registration is required to attend both.</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">North Chevy Chase Elementary School Walkability Study.<br /><strong>Thursday, Oct. 19</strong>, <br />from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. <br /><em>Virtual Meeting.</em> <br /><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/eaeb0840-434a-4ca8-bc2a-2e9b22450e13@6e01b1f9-b1e5-4073-ac97-778069a0ad64" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Online registration is required</a>.<br /><br /></li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">New Hampshire Estate Elementary School Walkability Study<br /><strong>Wednesday, Oct. 25</strong>, <br />from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. <br /><em>Virtual and In-Person.</em><br />Location: New Hampshire Estate Elementary School Cafeteria, <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/New+Hampshire+Estates+Elementary+School/@38.9975205,-76.9921428,16z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c60c10735eef:0xd4325f159eb816ba!8m2!3d38.9983425!4d-76.9921486!16s%2Fm%2F076bd61?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">8720 Carroll Ave.</a>, Silver Spring.<br /><a href="https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/a8e4af2d-6bc3-41a9-a38b-416d754fd188@6e01b1f9-b1e5-4073-ac97-778069a0ad64" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Online registration is required</a>.</li>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The meetings will review study findings and discuss the sidewalk and safety needs of students walking and biking to the studied school. </p>
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<td align="center" bgcolor="#1c44ab" class="govd_button" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -ms-word-break: break-all; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; background-color: #1c44ab; border-radius: 5px; border: none; display: inline-block; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 10px; text-align: center; word-break: break-word; word-wrap: break-word;"><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44109&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="text-decoration-line: none !important; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><strong style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 15px;">Learn more here</strong></a></td>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">MCDOT Introduced Newell Street Shared Street Planning Study on Tuesday, Oct. 10 in Silver Spring</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT presented long-term alternatives from a recent facility planning study at a public in-person meeting. The public can watch the meeting recording on the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/NewellStreet/index.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">project website</a> sometime next week.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The public can still provide feedback until 5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 27 to Bikeway Coordinator Matt Johnson via email at <a href="mailto:matt.johnson@montgomerycountymd.gov" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">matt.johnson@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>. </p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">In 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, the block of the street between <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/Resources/Images/NewellSt/ProjectMap.PNG" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Kennett St. and East-West Hwy.</a>, adjacent to Acorn Park, was closed to vehicle traffic and used to create additional outdoor space to support safe social distancing. The street has since been reopened to vehicle traffic.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT is conducting a facility planning study to examine the future of this portion of Newell Street. Keeping the roadway open to traffic is under consideration, but the study will also look at how to improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety and expand green space in the area.</p>
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<h1 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT IS HIRING</h1>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT is Hiring for multiple positions including Senior Engineers, Senior Planning Specialists, Project Managers, Technicians, Field Supervisors and more. Visit the Montgomery County <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Human Resources page</a> for a complete listing.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Search 'Transportation' for current job openings online <a href="https://ex12.montgomerycountymd.gov/ojn1/ijn1/OA_HTML/RF.jsp?function_id=14301&resp_id=23350&resp_appl_id=800&security_group_id=0&lang_code=US" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h1 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MORE COUNTY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES</h1>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Ride On Attends Resource Fair at the Beacon 50+Expo, Sunday, Oct. 22</strong></h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="left" alt="beacon" class="govd_template_image" height="169" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8366219/5027396/beaconexporo_crop.png" style="border: none; float: left; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 223px;" width="223" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The <a href="https://www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/50expos/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Beacon newspaper’s</a> annual in-person 50+Expos invites older adults and their families to attend this free event that runs between noon and 4 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fplace%2FSilver%2BSpring%2BCivic%2BBuilding%2Bat%2BVeterans%2BPlaza%2F%4038.9973835%2C-77.0244629%2C15z%2Fdata%3D!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c8ba7fcc87c7%3A0x85f73077e6b965fd!8m2!3d38.9973835!4d-77.0244629!16s%252Fm%252F0djzln3%3Fentry%3Dttu&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186111958%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=i%2FmZfUHghnb5xMApmuj5Esxa60DQloC2FibZEfn6ItY%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">1 Veterans Plaza Place</a>). It features a diverse array of exhibitors, including government agencies, nonprofits and local businesses that will provide a range of valuable resources, health screenings, vaccine shots, entertainment and more.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Ride On will have a table promoting transit services, the Seniors Ride Free program and giveaways. Learn more <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Faccessjca.org%2Fthe-beacon-50-expo-returns-for-2023%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186111958%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Sd7EGiRX5D8icyCPkOUkKDtB2eROUplUv2G4CRAnm3w%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>Picking the Perfect Pumpkin Patch</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">With Autumn here and Halloween just around the corner, it is important to know where to go to pick the perfect pumpkin. Luckily, Montgomery County is home to some of the top farms with pick-your-own pumpkin patches near Washington, DC.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">We’ve compiled locations, hours, what to expect, and more to give you the best shot at picking the perfect pumpkin patch this season. Learn more <a href="https://visitmontgomery.com/blog/see-do/picking-the-perfect-pumpkin-patch/" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Download and use <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Ride On’s Trip Planning app</a> to get you to a local pumpkin patch this weekend!</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Germantown Police and Fire Open House, Saturday, Oct. 28</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">On Saturday, Oct. 28, the MCDOT Pedestrian Safety team will join the 5th District Police Station and Fire Station 29 for an Open House from 12- 3 p.m. at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/20000+Aircraft+Dr,+Germantown,+MD+20874/@39.1846103,-77.2635956,189m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b62c6cc8b20747:0xd5d59d4e49782d99!8m2!3d39.1843478!4d-77.2627587!16s%2Fg%2F11b8z16dqg?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">2000 Aircraft Dr.</a> in Germantown.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">This event will also have activities for the entire family, including public safety demonstrations, police and fire and rescue vehicles on display, music, and games.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Participates in National Heritage Month Celebration Friday, Oct. 13</strong></h3>
<img alt="HIspanicHeritagemonth" class="govd_template_image" height="166" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8209406/5024706/hispanic-month-23-original_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Join MCDOT at the <a href="https://mygreenmontgomery.org/2023/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-celebrando-el-mes-de-la-herencia-hispana/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Hispanic Heritage Month</a> celebration for live music – popular local Latin bands and Artists, environmental demonstrations, games, local artisan vendors, and cocktails and drinks. The celebration will be held outside <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Marian+Fryer+Town+Plaza/@39.0386093,-77.0545029,16.29z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cf86063171a7:0xd9b3fbdf89514b34!8m2!3d39.038228!4d-77.0519138!16s%2Fg%2F11q95dbmm5?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Marian Fryer Town Plaza</a> located at 2501 Ennalls Ave. in Wheaton.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Stop by and meet Ride On staff who will have a table full of giveaways and information on MCDOT transportation services, including <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmontgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot-transit%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ID7xeQ3kpbwYyedfPRsZ5pPMr3Lj2MamnAgdpyDICN8%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Ride On, Flex, Flash, and extRa</a> bus service. Also, learn about free transportation services for <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot-transit%2Fseniors.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Lg16dmCrIUEt%2F9EPxiuGIEUVHFpvcP9YBjiYzku%2Bq3U%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">older adults & persons with disabilities</a> and the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-Transit%2FKidsRideFree%2Findex.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ZzRhkRTBFouIXpYxb%2Fecd6S96gCCg9toEvoPaH6fFPc%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Kids Ride Free</a> program. The TRIPS Mobile Commuter Store will also be onsite providing information on transportation options and selling SmarTrip cards.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Take the bus there by planning your trip with the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2Fdot-transit%2Ftrip-planner%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=iDb%2BV%2B4xUzzAJKCkg780zknCjMU3f9xAP2iPppdI4Yc%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Ride On Trip Planner.</a></p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>National School Bus Safety Week, Oct. 16-20</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Held during the third full week of October each year, <a href="https://www.napt.org/nsbsw" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">National School Bus Safety Week</a> is a public education program encouraging parents, students, teachers, school bus operators, school administrators and other interested parties to join forces and address the importance of school bus safety.</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">The school bus is one of the safest modes of transportation, but illegal passing poses a significant threat to riders. (Source: NHTSA)</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Last school year (2022-2023), 50,431 drivers passed a stopped school bus and were issued a ticket. (Source: MCPD)</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">All 1,300 county school buses are equipped with enforcement cameras. (Source: MCPD)</li>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Watch this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PaN0cXZWYA" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">safety video,</a> which was made for elementary school students emphasizing safety tips for children traveling to and from school on the bus featuring MCDOT’s safety zebra. </p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Thanks for Participating in Car Free Day; Here's How to Keep the Momentum Going</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">More than 4,000 commuters and residents around the D.C. region took the pledge to go car-free on Thursday, Sept. 22.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT Commuter Services staff distributed registration cards for raffle prizes and giveaways to 400 residents who stopped by tables set up outside five transit centers.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Commuters working in Montgomery County can get a transit benefit of up to $300 a month for using public transit, or vanpooling, by asking their employers to set up a transportation benefits program and applying for MCDOT's <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/fareshare/index.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">FareShare program</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The program offers reimbursements to local businesses for their employees’ costs for commuting to work by public transit less $25—and the money is tax-free to the employee.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>National Teen Driver Safety Week, Oct. 15 - 21</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is offering free resources on teen driving.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Some of the greatest dangers for teen drivers are alcohol and other drug use, inconsistent or no seat belt use, distracted driving, speeding, and driving with passengers in the vehicle.</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px;">Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States.</li>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Learn the Rules of the Road:</p>
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<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 0px;">Don’t Drive Impaired.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Buckle Up — Every Trip. Every Time.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Keep Your Eyes on the Road, Hands on the Wheel, and Mind on the Driving Task.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">Obey All Posted Speed Limits.</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin-bottom: 10px;">Limit Passengers.</li>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Learn more at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nhtsa.gov%2Froad-safety%2Fteen-driving&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186111958%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=oZuTQD%2B%2BIjLMobykVmlBArBei6evUjzYTcqB3gBScsI%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">nhtsa.gov/road-safety/teen-driving</a>.</p>
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<h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT PROJECT UPDATES & NEWS</h1>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Safer Street Crossings with Hybrid Pedestrian Beacons</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT%2FProjects%2FAutomatedPedBeacon.html&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351185955758%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FgrqPuFzPjorIAMFQKIIynSljI827Z%2FGpbtD5wVLPSQ%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Hybrid Pedestrian Beacons</a>, also known as signalized pedestrian beacons or high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) beacons, are an attractive and cost-effective option to meet pedestrian safety needs at mid-block crossings or where the traffic volume is too low to warrant a continuously cycling traffic signal.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">These traffic safety devices are pedestrian-activated and help protect bicyclists and pedestrians by stopping traffic. In evaluating sites for a hybrid pedestrian beacon installation, MCDOT considers the volume of pedestrian traffic, the type of roadway, traffic speeds and installs these beacons where traffic speeds are 35 mph and lower.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">These beacons are being placed throughout Montgomery County and align with the County’s Vision Zero <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/action.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">initiative</a> to improve pedestrian safety. Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/10/safer-street-crossings-with-hybrid.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Highway Services Employees Receives Proclamation </strong></h3>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mococouncilmd/53248365271/in/album-72177720311837568/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img alt="ererr" class="govd_template_image" height="390" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8367208/mcdot-oct-10-24-53248864090-osm_original.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none; width: 370px;" width="370" /></a>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Councilmember Natalie Fani-Gonzalez <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k4nnA3atcw" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">presented a proclamation</a> to MCDOT’s <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Photo_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=20069" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Highway Services</a> Division which received and resolved 43,000 service calls.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Highway Services Division</a> serves as the County's ‘boots on the ground,” for Montgomery County. They are the County’s emergency response team for storms, managing the Storm Operations Center (S-O-C) to monitor conditions and react. They are responsible for closing roads in times of floods, removing fallen trees in the roadway, and clearing snow to ensure emergency access. They are also responsible for paving and maintaining over 5,000 miles of roadway, to managing our stormwater, planting 2,000 trees a year in the County’s right-of-way, and maintaining hundreds of thousands more with six certified arborists. They also manage leafing and street sweeping. Street sweeping efforts removed 821 tons of debris in Fiscal Year 23 that would have otherwise ended up in our waterways.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">MCDOT Wraps Up Road Restriping Efforts on Century Boulevard in Germantown</h3>
<img alt="centuryblvdstriping2" class="govd_template_image" height="345" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8366287/5027400/centuryblvd_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 370px;" width="370" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Century Blvd. striping was completed on Tuesday, Oct. 10 with the exception of the BUSES ONLY Markings which will be completed in the next week or so. </p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Also, a portion of Century Blvd. between Crystal Rock Dr. and Cloverleaf Center Dr. is receiving patching, milling, resurfacing, and utility adjustments this fall. The project started in September and will take 4-6 weeks to complete. Lane shifts, closures and temporary detours are expected.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">View the project newsletter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Century%20Boulevard.pdf" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>. </p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Did you Know?</h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT is responsible for investigating and repainting over 5,000 miles of County-owned roads. <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-traffic/signs_marking.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Lane markings</a> and road paint fade over time. If you come across a road in need of repainting contact MC311 Customer Service Center.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT Begins Arterial Road Resurfacing This Month on MacArthur Boulevard in Potomac</h3>
<img alt="pavingtallimage" class="govd_template_image" height="204" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8366930/5027613/pavetall_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The project will consist of milling, patching and resurfacing the existing pavement to improve roadway conditions. Work will take four to six weeks to complete between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, weather permitting. View the project newsletter <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-Highway%2FResources%2FFiles%2FMacArthur%2520Boulevard(1).pdf&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186268178%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c4qtVa0ZOjEfCaKTaqUarV1ycrIJBzVh12%2BE32prsFA%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here.</a></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Additional <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/roadmaint/Pavement_Management/Primary_Arterial/primaryarterialresurfacingprograms.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Fall projects</a> include the following arterial roads in Germantown: Seneca Meadows Pkwy., Brink Rd. and Century Blvd. </p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>MCDOT Garage Washing / Degreasing Update</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">MCDOT's Fall washdown of our parking garages in Wheaton concludes in Amherst <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html#collapseTwo" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Garage 45</a>. Cleaning crews have now started Silver Spring Fenton Street Village <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-Parking%2FParking-Facilities%2FSilverSpringPLD.html%23collapseThree&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186268178%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=TCjo3t3PLrsfOKUCYz%2FqyX0M1xjXh%2BaRoXRRVuWNAHI%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Garage 4</a> today. View the washing/degreasing schedule <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerycountymd.gov%2FDOT-Parking%2FResources%2FFiles%2FFall%25202023%2520Washdown%2520Decreasing%2520Schedule_%25209-11-23%2520to%252011-4-2023.pdf&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186268178%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=QDP9NotHqg9bOL7cp7IzNx%2BP5DLJ9Os7hLZ6QozDd6s%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">CONTACT MC311<br />TO GET IT DONE</h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">MC311 agents are available between 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Friday by phone at 311 (or 240-777-0311) or 24/7 online at <a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/MC311" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">montgomerycountymd.gov/MC311.</a></p>
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<h1 class="govd_header" style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.67em 0 10px;">COUNTY NEWS</h1>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Latest Podcast from the Department of Permitting Services Focuses on Public Right-of-Way</h3>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="right" alt="podcastdep" class="govd_template_image" height="121" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363110/5027402/podcast_crop.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 225px;" width="225" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The seventh episode of the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DPS/permitting-services-podcast.html" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast focuses on “Public Right-of-Way”</a> information. It provides tips about how to know where a property ends and where the public right-of-way begins; who maintains it; what can be located in the public right-of-way; and when a permit is needed. Learn more <a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/10/latest-podcast-from-department-of.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Montgomery County Bill Phasing Out of Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers and Leaf Vacuums</strong></h3>
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<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Montgomery <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44121" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">County Executive Marc Elrich signed Bill 18-22</a>, Noise Control – Leaf Removal Equipment, into law. This new law will phase out the sale and use of gas-powered leaf blowers and leaf vacuums. View Bill 18-22, including the Sept. 26, County Council staff report <a href="https://apps.montgomerycountymd.gov/ccllims/DownloadFilePage?FileName=2765_1_25278_Bill_18-22_Enacted_20230926.pdf" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">MCDOT has been transitioning to all electric-powered blowers for a couple of years.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Montgomery County Council Passes Montgomery Planning's Pedestrian Master Plan</h3>
<img alt="pedmasterplan614x733" class="govd_template_image" height="322" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8362839/5025493/pedestrian-master-plan-planning614x733_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 270px;" width="270" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The <a href="https://montgomeryplanning.org/planning/transportation/pedestrian-planning/pedestrian-master-plan/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Pedestrian Master Plan</a> are recommendation from the Park and Planning Department to increase multi-modal transportation and safety.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The <a href="https://montgomeryplanning.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pedestrian-Master-Plan-Planning-Board-Draft-Clean_Final_Web.pdf" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">298-page document</a> includes policy recommendations, prioritization of pedestrian and bicyclist zones, ways to eliminate barriers to walking in the county, and includes analysis from surveys done of county pedestrians. Learn more <a href="https://moco360.media/2023/10/10/montgomery-county-council-passes-pedestrian-master-plan/?" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<h2 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">MARYLAND NEWS</h2>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><img align="right" alt="incentrip" class="govd_template_image" height="317" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8352732/incentrip_original.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 219px;" width="219" />
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>A Winning Commute with the incenTrip App Webinar, Recording Now Available</strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">If your organization is planning a return-to-office strategy or if you’re just looking for new commute options, check out the recording from last month’s webinar: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32ASqALspII" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">A Winning Commute with the incenTrip App</a>.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Special guest Daniel Sheehan, Transportation Program Operations Manager for the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, presented the new <a href="https://incentrip.org/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">incenTrip</a> features that help you earn more rewards for your commute and start your own commuter challenges at your organization.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The incenTrip app is free and available to all Maryland commuters. <a href="https://incentrip.org/download.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Download it from your app store today</a>.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Winter Forecast Prediction For Maryland </strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;"> If new prediction models from the National Weather Service prove out, Maryland residents could see a warmer-than-average but slightly snowier winter. Read the Patch article <a href="https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/new-2023-24-winter-forecast-prediction-md-released?utm_term=article-slot-1&utm_source=newsletter-daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter&user_email=aed954d8b91483aa1d372d79f3dd863d80e0ba3d9c036a9b7ee78fdf6bcb1d62" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>. MCDOT Storm Operations Center is on standby during bad weather conditions.</p>
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<h2 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 20px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0.83em 0 10px;">METRO NEWS</h2>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;"><a href="https://wmata.com/service/status/index.cfm#current-alerts" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="metrobus-rail" class="govd_template_image" height="314" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5478521/2_original.png" style="border: none; float: right; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none; width: 225px;" width="225" /></a>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Metrorail Weekend Service for Saturday, Oct. 14 through Sunday, Oct. 15</h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The Red Line is single tracking between Medical Center and Grosvenor stations with trains running every 10 minutes between Friendship Heights and Glenmont and every 20 minutes between Friendship Heights and Shady Grove. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/status/details/weekend.cfm" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">Metrobus to Deliver 24-Hour Service Starting Later This Year</h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) announced a new District-funded initiative called the Overnight Bus Service, which will extend Metrobus operations starting later this year.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Staff is preparing to deliver 24/7 Metrobus service on 13 lines in the frequent serviced network, which is anticipated to particularly benefit late-night workers and businesses. Learn more <a href="https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/washington-dc/metrobus-to-deliver-24-hour-service-starting-later-this-year/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>New Lost and Found Policy Expands Items Metro Will Hold to Return to Customers</strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Metro will now keep a wider list of lost items left behind on trains, buses, at stations and other Metro facilities. Learn more <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wmata.com%2Fabout%2Fnews%2FLost-and-Found-Policy-Update-Sept-2023.cfm&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FtSFgk8HwxOgrBj5x0zLOr1M2XIfCQ%2FS8MHOXLLirw4%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Halfway to the Finish Line. New Escalators Open at Grosvenor-Strathmore and Farragut North Metrorail Stations, as Construction Moves to K St. Entrance </strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Metro’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wmata.com%2Fabout%2Fnews%2FEscalator-replacement-project-update.cfm&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Guoa4t8TZ02Lf5ea6ZdblT5Wkh65vhk2uF9MmZDsPrE%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">escalator replacement project</a> is headed for the home stretch with installation complete on half of the 130 escalators planned for replacement. As of Monday, Oct. 9 three brand new, more reliable escalators are up and running at the Farragut North Entrance on L Street NW. At Grosvenor, two of four station escalators have been replaced with work continuing on two others. Rail service will not be impacted.</p>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Metro Seeks More Equitable Service for Region with Update to Title VI Civil Rights Program that Ensures Everyone Counts</strong></h3>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Metro revised its <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wmata.com%2Frider-guide%2FTitle-VI-Program-Changes-2023%2Findex.cfm&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bjE7rQ7giymS3GIERwQZ9Aqbd8rZghEUzn1bQVQCm3I%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">Title VI Program</a> to better reflect and support customers and the region. The proposed updates will help Metro provide better service, quicker service adjustments, expand service and increase the level of household income that qualifies as low-income.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Public feedback is requested by 5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15 on the proposed changes.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">Take the survey online <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwmata.questionpro.com%2Fa%2FTakeSurvey%3Ftt%3DmUaoBvwn9ZIECHrPeIW9eQ%253D%253D%26custom1%3Dw&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Ai552bmOJMB4%2BdDXGxmQ8x%2FRu1mq21LHYe%2FcyFkWNLQ%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a></u>.</p>
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<h1 style="color: #1c44ab; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">TRANSPORTATION-RELATED NEWS</h1>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Road Crash Deaths Drop, But Remain Higher Than Before Pandemic</strong></h3>
<img alt="crashdata" class="govd_template_image" height="114" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363070/5027403/traffarticle_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Traffic fatalities declined for the fifth straight quarter. About 19,515 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2023, a decrease of about 3.3% compared to 20,190 fatalities in the first half of 2022.</p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0 0 10px;">The number of deaths dropped in 29 states, while 21 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, are projected to have experienced increases. Read the Forbes article <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forbes.com%2Fsites%2Ftanyamohn%2F2023%2F09%2F28%2Froad-crash-deaths-drop-but-remain-higher-than-before-pandemic%2F%3Fsh%3D789ef4ff20c8&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186580603%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=26bGuLK7%2BzINQ5K5elXdmOeSuIB4ZglL36ht0USIGG8%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>The Case for Rider Joy</strong></h3>
<img alt="joyrider" class="govd_template_image" height="114" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363093/5027404/articlee89499_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">When was the last time you felt joy while taking transit? Does transit – whether it’s your local Metro station, bus stop, or Bikeshare station – make you feel connected with the people and places around you? Read the GGWash article <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fggwash.org%2Fview%2F90837%2Fthe-case-for-rider-joy%3Fsourceid%3D%26emci%3D027cccb3-7452-ee11-9937-00224832e811%26emdi%3Def7b3f45-af58-ee11-9937-00224832eb73%26ceid%3D21559435&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186580603%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=scTKg9eVsFaPxcwOj2XPAezgke7ycg6F4mDbfz83y3s%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>Amtrak Remakes Itself With New Trains and Infrastructure Improvements</strong></h3>
<img alt="am" class="govd_template_image" height="143" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363071/5027405/amarticle_crop.jpg" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The White House called it “the largest investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak.” The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, enacted in 2021, authorized $66 billion for the nation’s passenger railroad. Read the Smart Cities Dive article <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smartcitiesdive.com%2Fnews%2Famtrak-remakes-itself-new-trains-tunnels-infrastructure-improvements%2F695893%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=6GrCPq9MNig2R%2FIkg6KJlBTvUky39fNTyRXXeseSraw%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;"><strong>67% Of All Housing Units In The US Have Vehicle Parking Within 20 Feet Of An Electrical Outlet</strong></h3>
<img alt="67p" class="govd_template_image" height="117" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363069/5027406/evarticle48484_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">According to the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey, 67% of all housing units in the United States have vehicles parked within 20 feet of an electrical outlet. This is significant when planning for the transition to EVs, where at-home charging is important. Maryland has 63% of housing units with an outlet within 20 feet of vehicle parking. Learn more <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcleantechnica.com%2F2023%2F09%2F19%2F67-of-all-housing-units-in-the-us-have-vehicle-parking-within-20-feet-of-an-electrical-outlet%2F&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=eALMEg3DDQoIAy%2BRg7BU1Nqv5X6D4740WCaUOpLWTJA%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><strong>How Electric Bikes Could Stop Being a Luxury Item and More Accessible</strong></h3>
<img alt="ebik" class="govd_template_image" height="127" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8363097/5027407/ebikesarticle66_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">Programs in D.C., Tampa and Philadelphia provide ways for low-income residents to use e-bikes. So cities/states across the United States are rolling out programs to make e-bikes more accessible to lower-income residents. Read the Washington Post article <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.washingtonpost.com%2Fclimate-solutions%2F2023%2F10%2F05%2Febike-rebate-voucher%2F%3F_pml%3D1&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C733b627c9ec5427f777308dbcb5807d6%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638327351186424404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=R39aPaxsRAPx1rNtGw2Xx3%2BoWslOLtnyprSg%2F%2FW%2F5a4%3D&reserved=0" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;">here</a>.</p>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 1em 0 10px;">A New U-Md. Research Center Will Study Fairer, Greener Transportation Networks</h3>
<img alt="article7878787" class="govd_template_image" height="194" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/10/8366796/washpostarticle44_original.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; width: 170px;" width="170" />
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 1em 0 10px;">The Center for Multi-Modal Mobility in Urban, Rural, and Tribal Areas is backed by funding from the federal infrastructure law and will look at the possible benefits of fare-free transit; the design of “complete streets” that are safe for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists; and the role of autonomous vehicles in low-income communities. Read the Washington Post article <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/10/13/maryland-transportation-research/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
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<td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" width="278"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank"><img alt="mcdotsocial35" class="govd_template_image" height="213" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8191939/5027603/mcdot-rideonsocial_crop.png" style="border: none; height: auto; line-height: 1; max-width: 100%; outline: none; text-decoration-line: none; width: 278px;" width="278" /></a></td>
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<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;"><br />Follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.threads.net/@mcdotnow" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">Threads</a>.</h3>
<h3 style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0 0 10px;">View all our social accounts <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #1d5782;" target="_blank">here</a>.</h3>
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<p align="left" style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #c4def5;"><strong>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</strong></a>.</p>
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</tbody></table>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-6804714089213518052023-10-11T16:04:00.003-04:002023-10-11T16:04:33.246-04:00Safer Street Crossings with Hybrid Pedestrian Beacons<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Resources/Images/SignalizedPedBeacons_WebBanner.png" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="800" height="158" src="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Resources/Images/SignalizedPedBeacons_WebBanner.png" width="640" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/AutomatedPedBeacon.html" style="font-family: arial;">Hybrid Pedestrian Beacons</a><span style="color: #003366; font-family: arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">, also known as signalized
pedestrian beacons or high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) beacons, are an
attractive and cost-effective option to meet pedestrian safety needs at
mid-block crossings or where the traffic volume is too low to warrant a
continuously cycling traffic signal. These traffic safety devices are
pedestrian-activated and help protect bicyclists and pedestrians by stopping
traffic. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #003366; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">In evaluating sites for a hybrid pedestrian beacon installation, MCDOT
considers the volume of pedestrian traffic, the type of roadway, traffic
speeds, and sight lines. Montgomery County typically installs these beacons
where traffic speeds are 35 mph and lower. These beacons are being placed
throughout Montgomery County and can be seen throughout the state of Maryland. </span></span><span style="color: #003366; font-family: arial;">This safety infrastructure aligns with the County’s Vision Zero initiative to
improve pedestrian safety.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">When
a pedestrian presses the button, drivers see a flashing yellow signal,
signifying they should slow down and prepare to stop. It then turns to solid
yellow and then solid red, instructing drivers to stop. The signal produces a
loud noise when it turns red. Pedestrians see a walk sign. After a countdown,
the lights turn off. Drivers can proceed if the crosswalk is clear. The signal
stays off until a pedestrian activates it again.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-80463057785489368832023-10-11T14:49:00.003-04:002023-10-11T14:49:24.240-04:00 ‘Be Seen on Halloween’ Emphasized for Halloween<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRntb0U1Q6xVRO2a5UK-8IEBh-5lG-w9wB4j-Lt7nERALvjjSv8S_HQaaChKe4D4tw2uqkMCWY_oUDXMCc8wMVMXr2wVRBWKLggxOTmbW-SgxHcag8SmSaRo4YI48zoIjpWcVFTpLER-FF4raujyiL4Vk-mc5sAW6pcoqgwEaBuW5cxOvnP-bq2M5VFTQ/s10801/HalloweenCampaign_2021-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="10801" data-original-width="7200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRntb0U1Q6xVRO2a5UK-8IEBh-5lG-w9wB4j-Lt7nERALvjjSv8S_HQaaChKe4D4tw2uqkMCWY_oUDXMCc8wMVMXr2wVRBWKLggxOTmbW-SgxHcag8SmSaRo4YI48zoIjpWcVFTpLER-FF4raujyiL4Vk-mc5sAW6pcoqgwEaBuW5cxOvnP-bq2M5VFTQ/w426-h640/HalloweenCampaign_2021-01.png" width="426" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">MCDOT wants to
ensure that trick-or-treaters have a safe and fun Halloween, particularly since
it will be dark during many of the festivities.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The <a href="https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/autumn-safety/halloween" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">National Safety Council</span></a> tells us that children are more than twice as likely
to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. It
is so important that families take extra precautions to “be seen on Halloween”.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The following tips can help keep trick-or-treaters
safe:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="height: 0px; text-align: left;"></p><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Drivers should
slow down and be alert. Kids are excited on Halloween and may dart into
the street. Reduce speed and turn on headlights early ito spot kids from
further away.</span></li></ul><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Never drive after consuming alcohol. CAll a taxi or
designate a driver who is not drinking at all. The Washington Regional
Alcohol Program will be offering free Lyft rides home for adults 21 and
over who choose to drink alcohol on Halloween night. A limited number of
codes will be made available in advance. Visit soberride.com for more
information.</span></li></ul><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Drivers and
trick-or-treaters should avoid looking at electronic devices and be aware
of their surroundings.Trick-or-treaters should cross the street at corners or
crosswalks. Always look left, right and left again when crossing, and keep
looking as you cross. Walk—do not run—across the street.</span></li></ul><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Parents and
trick-or-treaters can make themselves more easily seen by carrying glow
sticks or flashlights, using reflective tape or stickers on costumes and
wearing light colors.</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: arial;">x</span><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: left;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: left;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-background-themecolor: background1; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The MCDOT <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SRTS/home.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Safe Routes to School
program</span></a> will be participating at several
family friendly events, giving out safety prizes and promoting pedestrian
safety. View our calendar of events <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html">here</a>. MCDOT wishes you a fun and safe
Halloween this year.</span><o:p></o:p></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-41156237169075746162023-09-26T14:11:00.017-04:002023-10-09T11:56:14.839-04:00Alice Ferguson Foundation's History and How the Adopt A Road Program Became Apart of the Potomac Watershed Initiative<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLWvukdsU1erfLxem67ijezlVukB0_Q9ibl8vdzOK2oQiSJqrGAEg_Jxn5YdrFZIsnrdQAxM27Bdm1XnQBDtmut-k-1Hv7ycYM8JwBF8wLiUjYrY1qpb4zLQAQuyTYZ0cJOB_22Ru50Xf84cnaM-6-QkjnkeyQbW9IHguh4sGz0KTvurnlkJDl8nKgCY/s1713/alicefergusonhome.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1713" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLWvukdsU1erfLxem67ijezlVukB0_Q9ibl8vdzOK2oQiSJqrGAEg_Jxn5YdrFZIsnrdQAxM27Bdm1XnQBDtmut-k-1Hv7ycYM8JwBF8wLiUjYrY1qpb4zLQAQuyTYZ0cJOB_22Ru50Xf84cnaM-6-QkjnkeyQbW9IHguh4sGz0KTvurnlkJDl8nKgCY/w400-h250/alicefergusonhome.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">When Alice and Henry Ferguson purchased <a href="https://www.fergusonfoundation.org/news-stories/celebrating-hard-bargain-farms-centennial-milestone/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997;" target="_blank">Hard Bargain Farm</a> along the Potomac River in Accokeek, Maryland in 1922, they had no idea how significant an impact the 138-acre plot of land would have on the surrounding area. Hard Bargain Farm was a summer and weekend retreat that became an escape for the friends and family of the Fergusons and acted as the setting for Alice to fully develop her creative and philanthropic nature. </span></span><span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Following Alice's death, Henry established the <a href="https://fergusonfoundation.org/" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997;" target="_blank">Alice Ferguson Foundation</a> in 1954 and later donated their property </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white;">to </span><a href="https://www.accokeek.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Piscataway Park</span></a><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">in an effort to preserve the riverfront beauty and his wife's legacy. The foundation executed its mission to provide experiences that encourage connections between people, the natural environment, farming, and the cultural heritage of the</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">Potomac River Watershed</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">by offering educational programs for the entire community.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">In 1989, the foundation expanded its outreach by organizing a two-site litter cleanup on the Piscataway Park shoreline in collaboration with Accokeek Foundation/National Colonial Farm. The amount of trash removed inspired the staff to make it an annual event that is now called the <a href="https://www.fergusonfoundation.org/get-involved/" target="_blank">Annual Potomac River Cleanup</a>. After five years of growth, the cleanup expanded to the entire Potomac Watershed, which includes the sizeable area that drains into the Potomac River in addition to the immediate shoreline. The concern for the health of the whole watershed sparked the proposal of the Trash Free Potomac Watershed Initiative.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeczDAyBKAue9MtxsJz2eMOVHzLo_xPXdsVj2INP8_bB9k4F5vKw53JQxz8pxqHuhxqF9DHHPxW-RC0saEUAGGdKQTW82TB6UZrxjqHoLpmPpAy7SzjkZ9IW32cpuvxmEpmjVDNy0zVnRyeyb7Qc85apnX5OfM28vmh-wo8QRWUOyftqRPUydr_FiHPE/s545/trashtreaty.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="404" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeczDAyBKAue9MtxsJz2eMOVHzLo_xPXdsVj2INP8_bB9k4F5vKw53JQxz8pxqHuhxqF9DHHPxW-RC0saEUAGGdKQTW82TB6UZrxjqHoLpmPpAy7SzjkZ9IW32cpuvxmEpmjVDNy0zVnRyeyb7Qc85apnX5OfM28vmh-wo8QRWUOyftqRPUydr_FiHPE/w296-h400/trashtreaty.jpg" width="296" /></a></span></div><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span><span style="font-family: arial;">This Initiative consists of key components and programs aiding in the vision of a trash-free watershed and one of these components was the</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> Watershed Trash Treaty, </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: arial;">a tangible representation of the commitment all residents of the </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: arial;">Potomac Watershed have pledged to the goal. Presently, 63 signatures of area elected officials adorn the treaty promising to "dramatically improve the enjoyment of the rivers and streams of the Potomac Watershed."</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Litter is a serious problem in the Potomac River Watershed, and its major tributaries. Litter travels from our streets into storm drains and waterways until it reaches the Potomac.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">While there is currently limited research or regional data that tracks the sources of regional trash, we speculate that the majority of this trash originates as refuse improperly or intentionally disposed of along roadsides and in public and private open spaces.<br /><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><b>Potomac River Watershed Cleanup</b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia were registered with the Annual Potomac Watershed Cleanup, the largest regional event of its kind. The Adopt A Road program is part of this initiative and the Watershed Trash Treaty.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Alice Ferguson Foundation annually leads the Trash Free Potomac Initiative, a community-wide movement in trash education and reduction through volunteer various cleanups, trash summits, policy regulations, and programs for Elementary, Middle and High schools.</span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Since 1989, the Alice Ferguson Foundation has spearheaded the Annual <a href="https://www.fergusonfoundation.org/potomac-river-watershed-cleanup/" target="_blank">Potomac River Watershed Cleanup</a> to connect people to their local watershed through stewardship and volunteerism. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Today the Alice Ferguson Foundation annually:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">serves elementary, middle and high school students in one- and two-day (overnight) environmental and agricultural programs onsite;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">serves an additional students in National and State parks throughout the metropolitan Washington, DC area;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">trains hundreds of teachers in outdoor environmental curricula, and;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">leads the Trash Free Potomac Initiative, a community-wide movement in trash education and reduction through volunteer cleanups, a Trash Summit, policy regulations and market-based solutions to the trash issue.</span></li></ul><p></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Students can earn Student Services Learning (SSL) hours for a variety of <a href="https://www.fergusonfoundation.org/ways-to-give/volunteer-with-us/" target="_blank">volunteer options</a>. The time volunteers offer is a valuable resource and supports environmental education. For questions email <a href="mailto: info@fergusonfoundation.org">info@fergusonfoundation.org</a>. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Residents can also help keep County roads free of litter by joining the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/AdoptARoad/" target="_blank">Adopt A Road program</a>!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimqPtvAqKm5RaKjow-FEl5gXJWF0Jw113tn92osC34MqjqvQ3r7wMdrktSQNDlKkJrRcFs3Um2J9rKuGm-0obBMdZdfXxM_6UAiV5i2yD7IZiRwbM7GP-uiRy9CcDWs8Sgsfi6w3w-86mzkbFVe-eiDkCtYSuDBZkXZktneAAc00XFoEXhBhK3c68NDI8/s300/playground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="300" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimqPtvAqKm5RaKjow-FEl5gXJWF0Jw113tn92osC34MqjqvQ3r7wMdrktSQNDlKkJrRcFs3Um2J9rKuGm-0obBMdZdfXxM_6UAiV5i2yD7IZiRwbM7GP-uiRy9CcDWs8Sgsfi6w3w-86mzkbFVe-eiDkCtYSuDBZkXZktneAAc00XFoEXhBhK3c68NDI8/s1600/playground.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><b>What is a Watershed?</b></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/water/streams/watershed.html" target="_blank">watershed</a> is an area of land that drains into a body of water. When it rains it lands on trees, grass, </span><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">homes, roads, farms, parking lots, gardens, schools and more. Natural surfaces absorb that water, but paved surfaces, buildings, and landscaped plots send most of the water flowing over land, downhill to nearby streams, we call that water runoff, and it carries with it anything that's on the land - soil, fertilizer, trash and more. These streams feed into the Potomac River. Montgomery County resides in the Potomac Watershed and what we do on land affects the river! <a href="https://montgomeryplanning.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Watersheds_A_SM.pdf" target="_blank">Click here</a> to view the watershed map.</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg161b9yIYs5IqeSTk29wsOte9Cfwgx0fp49YoyeM2aVfZarFBjsV99JMILkrO93--0ZTIP3HUfOvUjsleIgm4ekA6ZU0BukIZgFcvtBfX4cT8kiTcfjNZAecjFnRbml4TOtBWNbu9_IuVWUtpI4KvDudjEFTbLAgSefstAglqPkfRBni3a1MwXPpz9Yxo/s468/What_is_a_Watershed_rockingham-nc.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="417" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg161b9yIYs5IqeSTk29wsOte9Cfwgx0fp49YoyeM2aVfZarFBjsV99JMILkrO93--0ZTIP3HUfOvUjsleIgm4ekA6ZU0BukIZgFcvtBfX4cT8kiTcfjNZAecjFnRbml4TOtBWNbu9_IuVWUtpI4KvDudjEFTbLAgSefstAglqPkfRBni3a1MwXPpz9Yxo/s320/What_is_a_Watershed_rockingham-nc.gif" width="285" /></a></div><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Montgomery County has over 1,500 miles of streams and two major watersheds: the </span><a href="https://www.potomacriver.org/potomac-basin-facts/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Potomac River</a><span style="background-color: white;"> watershed, which covers 88% of the County, and the </span><a href="https://www.chesapeakeconservancy.org/apps/patuxent/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Patuxent River</a><span style="background-color: white;"> watershed, which covers the other 12%.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Watershed Map</span></b></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Want to know which watershed you live in and how healthy it is? </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Use this Interactive watershed map below:</span></span></p><div class="row" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: -15px; margin-right: -15px;"><center style="box-sizing: border-box;"><div class="col-md-9 col-md-offset-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; float: left; margin-left: 71.2326px; min-height: 1px; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 641.238px;"><center style="box-sizing: border-box;"><div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-4by3" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px 0px 458.436px; position: relative;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://mcgov-gis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Embed/index.html?webmap=34cbc4b4ce08421a8a25f9726ae1767c&extent=-77.8051,38.8635,-76.5349,39.4285&zoom=true&previewImage=false&scale=true&disable_scroll=true&theme=light" style="border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; bottom: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; height: 458.436px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 611.247px;" title="DEP Stream Conditions Map 2015"></iframe></div><small style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 13.6px;"><a href="http://mcgov-gis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTools/index.html?appid=d6ff0f6ce5214698b43fc114d69da297" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: blue; text-align: left;" target="_blank">View larger map</a></small></center></div></center></div><div class="row" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #373737; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: -15px; margin-right: -15px;"></div><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 10px;"><span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-36777077392160811952023-09-15T13:49:00.009-04:002023-09-15T16:27:15.779-04:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter is Now Available for SEPTEMBER 2023 <p><br /></p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;"></span><div class="bulletin_body" id="bulletin_body" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td background="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/bulletins/%7B%22image_url%22=%3E%22http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png%22,%20%22image_id%22=%3E184777,%20%22image_name%22=%3E%22noise%20background%22,%20%22repeat%22=%3E%22repeat%22,%20%22str%22=%3E%22background-image:%20url(http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png);background-repeat:%20repeat;%22,%20%22image_height%22=%3E118%7D" bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #e3f2ff; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png") repeat rgb(227, 242, 255); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; width: 700px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="carfreeday2-2023" class="govd_template_image" height="213" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8202276/4970443/carfreeday2023_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Residents Encouraged to Participate in Annual ‘Car-Free Day' to be Held on Friday, September 22</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County residents are encouraged to participate in Car Free Day, a worldwide event that encourages traveling in ways that are greener than driving alone, such as walking, riding a bicycle, using public transit such as bus or rail, joining a carpool or teleworking. Using more sustainable ways to get around helps reduce harmful <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/world-car-free-day-22-september-great-opportunity-reduce-air-pollution" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">greenhouse gas emissions</a> and traffic congestion. The more people that travel using alternative modes, the fewer greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents are invited to take the pledge to participate in Car Free Day on Friday, Sept. 22. Each entry will be entered into a raffle for some great prizes. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. Participants can take the pledge online here.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT will provide a “fare-free day” on Ride On buses. The action is coordinated with the Maryland Transit Administration which is <a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/articles/402" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">offering free rides</a> on Local Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC, Commuter Bus and Mobility service. Learn about other transportation options <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/09/montgomery-county-residents-encouraged.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT’s Commuter Services team will be at the following locations with free giveaways and pledge cards that can be filled out to enter in a raffle drawing for gift cards, Capital Bikeshare annual membership or a $200 SmarTrip card:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Bethesda Metro Station.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Friendship Heights Shops at Wisconsin Place.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Germantown Transit Center.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Shady Grove Metro Station.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Silver Spring Metro Station.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Twinbrook Metro Station.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Wheaton Marian Fryer Plaza. </strong>6:30 am to 8:30 am</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>White Oak Transit Center.</strong> 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Lake Forest Transit Center.</strong> 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Wheaton Marian Fryer Plaza at the Hispanic Heritage Festival.</strong> 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="RideOnReimage" class="govd_template_image" height="228" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/10/6537151/4967542/feakbf6xgai52wi_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 228px;" width="228" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Hosts Virtual Open House and Pop Up Events for Ride On Reimagined Study</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT has announced a virtual open house to be held on Thursday, Sept. 28 at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom to present a first look at the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/reimagined/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On Reimagined study</a> findings and get community feedback on proposed concept changes to the County transit network. Montgomery County residents are encouraged to <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8th1MVl_RfqL6owob4R_gQ#/registration" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">register</a> and attend to share their feedback.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The ongoing <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/reimagined/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On Reimagined Study</a> is a full-scale re-assessment of how the Montgomery County public transit network including Ride On, Metro Bus and rail and the future Purple Line, will operate in Montgomery County, with the goal of creating a future-focused public transportation system. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT will also hold multiple pop-up events throughout October to share proposed changes to individual routes. Upcoming events include:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Monday, <strong>Oct. 2</strong>, 7 – 10 a.m. at <br /><strong>Germantown Transit Center</strong></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Thursday, <strong>Oct. 5</strong>, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at <br /><strong>Rockville Metro Station</strong></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Tuesday, <strong>Oct. 10</strong>, 7 – 10 a.m. at <br /><strong>Bethesda Metro Station</strong></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Wednesday, <strong>Oct. 11</strong>, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at <br /><strong>Shady Grove Metro</strong></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="youthcard" class="govd_template_image" height="233" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2017/05/1361918/4967543/youthcruisercards2-jpg_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 220px;" width="220" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Students Can Ride County Buses for Free with Youth Cruiser Card</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT recommends youth save on their transportation costs by picking up a free Youth Cruiser card available at area schools and libraries. <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/fares/youth-cruiser.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Youth Cruiser cards</a> offer free bus fare for all MCDOT Ride On buses, and most Metro buses operating in the County.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Youth Cruiser SmarTrip® card, which is available to Montgomery County residents ages 5 to 18 (older if still in high school), provides free rides on all Montgomery County <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On buses</a>, including <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/RideOnExtra.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On extRa</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/flex/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On Flex</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/flash/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Flash</a>. The card also will waive fares on most Metro buses operating in the County. Value also can be added to the card for service on Metrorail and Metrobuses outside the County. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Bicycles can be mounted on the front of all Ride On buses or taken aboard the Flash bus currently operating on U.S. 29/Columbia Pike, which makes using buses a friendly option for young riders.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43958&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="flashsocial" class="govd_template_image" height="224" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7154331/4967544/flash-1080x1080-day-02_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Announces New Flash Bus Rapid Transit Website</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn about Montgomery County's Flash Bus Rapid Transit lines on the new webpage <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brt/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">F<span class="ui-provider fz b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr">lash is different from typical bus service in that it is designed to arrive every few minutes, has upgraded amenities, pre-boarding payment, priority traffic light signaling, and dedicated lanes where possible. This type of service is known nationally as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). Flash also offers amenities such as level boarding for wheelchairs, strollers and bikes, easy-to-use bike racks, and free Wi-Fi and USB charging and the vehicles stop at each of the state-of-the-art stations so there is no need to pull a chord.</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="rideontripplannerapp3" class="govd_template_image" height="222" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7897738/4969855/fx8rvrhwwaanckx_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 222px;" width="222" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Trip Planner App Surpasses 10,000 Users</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> in First 60 Days</span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43651&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">MCDOT announced the launch</a><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"d268544a-f5ad-46c4-9b59-4093db85ec05|191","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"contentpasted34",201340122,"2",134233614,"true",469778129,"contentpasted34",335572020,"1",201342448,"1",469777841,"Calibri",469777842,"Calibri",469777843,"Calibri",469777844,"Calibri",469769226,"Calibri",335551500,"4278190080",268442635,"22",335559740,"240",201341983,"0",335559739,"0",469778324,"Normal"]}" data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted34"> of a new Ride </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted34">On</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted34"> Trip Planner app</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted34"> this past </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted34">July.</span></span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span class="ui-provider fz b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr">The new Ride On Trip Planner app allows for trip planning across multiple modes including Ride On buses, Metrorail and Metrobuses, scooters and Bikeshare. Additionally, it gives live reports on wait times and ridership levels for Ride On buses by utilizing a crowdsourcing information feature. </span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span class="ui-provider fz b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr">The app was created in partnership with Moovit, a mobility and journey provider app. Riders can download the app from the <a aria-label="Link Google Play" class="fui-Link ___1eya986 f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.montgomery.rideon&pli=1" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank" title="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.montgomery.rideon&pli=1">Google Play</a> or <a aria-label="Link Apple app" class="fui-Link ___1eya986 f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ride-on-trip-planner/id1670305867" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank" title="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ride-on-trip-planner/id1670305867">Apple app</a> store.</span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="garagewash2" class="govd_template_image" height="273" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/05/2603291/garagewash_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Fall Cleaning of Montgomery County Public Parking Garages in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton Began on Monday, September 11 </strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">MCDOT</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> has begun</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> its </span></span><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43860&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">semi-annual interior washdown</a><span data-contrast="none"> to degrease and clean 21 County-owned parking garages in </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Bethesda</a><span data-contrast="none">, </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Silver Spring </a><span data-contrast="none">and </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Wheaton</a><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">. The </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">cleanings</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> will occur on nights and weekends starting with Bethesda garages in September and concluding with Silver Spring garages on Saturday, Nov. 4. The full schedule of garage cleanings can be viewed </span></span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Resources/Files/Fall%202023%20Washdown%20Decreasing%20Schedule_%209-11-23%20to%2011-4-2023.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":150,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">MCDOT performs spring and fall washdowns to keep garages clean and help keep grease, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">oil</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> and debris out of local waterways. Regular cleanings also prevent deterioration from prolonged exposure to salt, sand, oils, gas, dirt, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">pollen</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> and leaves.</span></span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="sstmd" class="govd_template_image" height="286" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2018/08/2079913/sstmf_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Elrich Seeks Applicants for Silver Spring Transportation Management District Advisory Committee </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Through Sept</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">ember</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Strong"> 20</span></span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":true,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">County Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill six vacancies on the </span><span data-contrast="none">Silver Spring Transportation Management District (SSTMD) Advisory Committee</span><span data-contrast="none"> for three private sector employers of fewer than 50 employees (small businesses) in the district and three private sector employers of 50 or more employees (large businesses) in the district.</span><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">The SSTMDAC advises the County government on all aspects of programs, management, and finances relating to the implementation of transportation demand management in the SSTMD</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">.</span></span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Learn more about Transportation Management Districts </span><span data-contrast="none"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/tmd/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a></span><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">For questions contact James Carlson by phone at either 240-777-8382 (or 301-318-0328), or by email at </span><a href="mailto:james.carlson@montgomerycountymd.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">james.carlson@montgomerycountymd.gov</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":true,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="norfolkstreetery" class="govd_template_image" height="289" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200954/4967547/norfolkstreeterypotrait_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>In-Person Public Meeting on the Norfolk Avenue Streetery Planning Study to be Held on Wednesday, September 20</strong></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Starting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 20, MCDOT will hold an in-person public meeting at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, Wisconsin Room, located at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda to discuss and gather community feedback on possible long-term improvements to the Norfolk Ave. Streetery area. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":150,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">This meeting will allow MCDOT to share the recommended alternative for the long-term future of Norfolk Avenue. The current design is still very preliminary and is at the concept stage. The ultimate goal of the effort is to find ways to support a permanent streetery along Norfolk Avenue and improve bicyclist and pedestrian safety in the corridor</span><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-contrast="none"> Learn more </span><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43963&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="westbard" class="govd_template_image" height="224" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201032/4967548/westbard-hearing-1_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Virtual Public Hearing to Be Held on the Petition to Permanently Close the Public Right of Way at the Westbard Avenue Intersection at River Road in Bethesda on Tuesday, September 19</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Starting at 2 p.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 19, MCDOT will hold a virtual public hearing on the petition to permanently close the public right of way at the NW terminus of </span><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/MD-190+%26+Westbard+Ave,+Bethesda,+MD+20816/@38.9683079,-77.1085884,291m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7ca2f2861fbb3:0xf811b520e072fded!8m2!3d38.9683092!4d-77.1088588!16s%2Fg%2F11jy9l57f5?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Westbard Ave. Intersection at River Rd.</a></span></span><span data-contrast="none"> in Bethesda.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">The petition was submitted by the 5500 Westbard Avenue Block Civic Association (the “Applicant”), pursuant to the </span><a href="https://montgomeryplanning.org/planning/communities/downcounty/westbard/planwestbard/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">2016 Westbard Sector Plan</a><span data-contrast="none">. The Applicant is requesting permanent closure of the public right of way from all vehicular traffic, including emergency vehicles, at the intersection. The petition also requests that a temporary closure remain in place until a permanent closure can be installed.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZJQPlG345aZCsoLMC_OZIPJUOUtEOTJOTUo0UTA4SkZXME9QOTJHTkZGTC4u&web=1&wdLOR=c03E61B48-AB93-4163-98F9-44CEDD438189" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Online registration</a><span data-contrast="none"> is required by 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 15. On the morning of the hearing, an email with a Zoom link will be sent to registrants. Written testimony carries the same weight as oral testimony. Testimony and information provided will become a matter of public record.</span> <span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">Learn more </span></span><a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43914&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":150,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">COUNTY NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="budgetforums" class="govd_template_image" height="237" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201826/4967549/download_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Montgomery County Executive to Hold ‘Community Conversations’ to Seek Input on Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget </strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, along with the County’s regional services offices and community partners will host 10 Community Conversations from September through December to seek input on the Fiscal Year 2025 Operating Budget.<a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"></a></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more and view dates and locations <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43991" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>County Alcohol Services Launch Campaign to Curb Underage Drinking</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43986" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">announced</a> a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ABS/education/kis/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">new ad campaign</a> designed to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Public service advertisements can be found on Ride On bus shelters ads are near high schools and Ride On bus taillights. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The ads will run for six weeks and include a QR code that can be scanned for suggestions on how best to reduce under-21 alcohol use. Learn more <a href="https://www.mymcmedia.org/county-alcohol-services-launch-campaign-to-curb-underage-drinking/?mc_cid=f945041404&mc_eid=6bce1c3097" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">METRO NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="metrobus-rail" class="govd_template_image" height="311" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5478521/2_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro Increased Red Line Service on Monday, September 11</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://www.sourceofthespring.com/tag/wmata/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Metro has launched</a><span data-contrast="none"> its eleventh service increase since last summer with more frequent Red Line service.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">Trains will run more frequently between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.</span> <span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">The exact times of peak service will vary by station, the agency said in a </span></span><a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/September-rail-service-increase.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">press </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">r</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">elease</span></span></a><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)">.</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="Normal (Web)"> </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":360,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Weekend Track Work and Maintenance on the Red Line to Close Four Stations</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">This weekend, Saturday, Sept. 16 and Sunday, Sept. 17, Metro will close four stations on the Red Line to perform track work. To accommodate this work the Shady Grove, Rockville, Twinbrook and North Bethesda stations will be closed, with free shuttle buses replacing trains. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Weekend-track-work-and-maintenance-on-the-Red-Line-to-close-four-stations.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro L</strong><strong>aunches an Income-Qualified Fare Program, Metro Lift</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Metro customers can enroll in Metro Lift, an income-qualified reduced fare program that was announced in July and provides a 50 percent discount on Metrorail and Metrobus fares for customers who qualify. The discount will reduce the cost of a bus trip to just $1 and rail fare to as little as $1 and no more than $3 depending on how far you travel.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Customers who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Maryland, Virginia, and DC qualify and can enroll at <a href="https://www.wmata.com/fares/Reduced-Fare-Programs/MetroLift/index.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">wmata.com/MetroLift</a>. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-Lift-Enrollment-Begins.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro Introduces 'Kids Ride Free' Lanes to Help D.C. Students Use Metro to Get to School</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Students will see ‘Kids Ride Free’ signage directing them to use specific faregates at Metrorail stations most used by school children. Station Managers will be on hand to help students who may have issues with their Kids Ride Free SmarTrip cards. Learn more </span><a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Kids-Ride-Free-2023.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.<span data-contrast="none"> </span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro to Shut Down Red Line Service at Three Stations in December for Critical Repairs and Upgrades</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Monday, Dec. 18, Metro will begin a two-week construction project on the Red Line to perform critical safety repairs to the tunnel and track infrastructure, upgrade signal and communications systems, and install new platform edge lights.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">During construction, Red Line service will be unavailable at Farragut North, Metro Center, and Gallery Place stations with free shuttle buses replacing trains from Monday, Dec. 18 through Saturday, Dec. 30. While the Red Line is closed, service will continue to be available on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines on the lower level at Metro Center and Green and Yellow line on the lower level at Gallery Place.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In addition, Judiciary Square Station will be closed from Friday, Dec. 22, through Sunday, Dec. 24. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Red-Line-Construction.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MARYLAND NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="md190map" class="govd_template_image" height="222" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201318/4967550/md-190_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 226px;" width="226" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MDOT SHA to Hold Virtual Meeting on <strong>Chevy Chase Area </strong>River Road Safety Study on Thursday, September 21</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will host a virtual public meeting on Thursday, Sept. 21 from 6:30-8 p.m. to share information and answer questions about the <a href="https://www.roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/pressreleasedetails.aspx?PageId=818&newsId=4770" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MD 190 (River Road) Corridor Safety Study</a>. The study is examining ways that pedestrian and bicyclist safety can be improved along approximately 4,000 feet of MD 190 in the Chevy Chase area from Springfield Drive to Little Falls Parkway.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The limits of the study include multiple driveways and intersections. The corridor study and needs analysis began in February 2023 and the team expects the study to be completed by fall 2023. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MD 190 is a State-maintained road. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents are encouraged to provide comments and ask questions before and after the meeting by email at <a href="mailto:MD190corridor@mdot.maryland.gov" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MD190corridor@mdot.maryland.gov</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Residents Encouraged to Provide Input On MDOT’s Maryland Transportation Plan “The Playbook”</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) recently concluded its initial internal and external engagement for the <a href="https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=22" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">2050 Maryland Transportation Plan</a> (MTP), which is Maryland’s long-range transportation plan and is being referred to as the “<a href="https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/OPCP/Playbook_Draft_September_2023.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">The Playbook</a>.” The Playbook provides more than 75 strategies to guide the state's transportation vision and investment priorities successfully for years to come. MDOT is passing “The Playbook” to the public for review and comment.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The public can provide feedback until Monday, Nov.20 online <a href="https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/8e04ebe30a4e4c88836babc444f5e155" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a> or by email at <a href="mailto:MDOTMTP@mdot.maryland.gov" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MDOTMTP@mdot.maryland.gov</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Governor Moore Announces Path Forward for Future of I-495, I-270 Corridors</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Monday, Aug. 21, Governor Wes Moore announced a path forward in addressing mobility and access challenges along the American Legion Bridge, I-495 and I-270, with the submission of a formal federal grant application for improvements to those corridors. This application advances a critical piece of the Moore-Miller program for multimodal enhancements in the Washington region along the I-495 and I-270 corridors. Learn more <a href="https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/newsroomdetails.aspx?newsId=700&PageId=38#:~:text=HANOVER%2C%20MD%20(August%2021%2C,for%20improvements%20to%20those%20corridors" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Read the Montgomery County Executive's response <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Media_Detail.aspx?NaID=5689" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">PURPLE LINE NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="purplelinearticle" class="govd_template_image" height="210" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201313/4967551/purple-line-trains-jan-2023-photo_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 226px;" width="226" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Grants Available for Businesses Affected by Purple Line Construction Through Saturday, September 30</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County officials announced <a href="https://www.sourceofthespring.com/silver-spring-news/2808893/grants-available-for-businesses-affected-by-purple-line-construction/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=sourcethespring" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Phase III of its grants program</a> that provides funding support for small businesses affected by the construction of the Purple Line. The Maryland Department of Commerce has provided a grant of $815,000 to support this grant program. Applications will be <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNjIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1vbnRnb21lcnljb3VudHltZC5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3MvcHVycGxlLWxpbmUtZ3JhbnQvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgzMC44MTg3MzgwMSJ9.ja-W37SW3w4xrh09HHNknxTujWfkHz8kNI1_N0NW6hs%2Fs%2F3026656346%2Fbr%2F225043133107-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C635cd10bc8184688665108dba9800e7b%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638290139716669670%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=s%2BtHR1FOyuW3%2FWGTuW3ogQBkYaLQHP%2FlJyR8YYrRIgQ%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">accepted online</a> through Saturday, Sept. 30.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Purple Line Transit Partners (PLTP) Launches New Community Grant Program</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The new community grant program entitled <em>Beyond the Rails </em>will provide financial support for local groups working to improve our local communities. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">PLTP, the State of Maryland’s partner on the Purple Line, is sponsoring and wholly funding the Beyond the Rails grant program to support organizations working to improve communities along the Purple Line corridor. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Please visit the <em>Beyond the Rails</em> <a href="https://purplelinemd.com/about-the-project/grants" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">webpage</a> for additional details and to access a simple-to-complete <a href="https://purplelinemd.com/about-the-project/grants/application" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">application form</a>. Please note the deadline for groups to submit applications for the initial group of grants is Thursday, Nov. 30. Read the MOCO36 article <a href="https://moco360.media/2023/09/13/moco-groups-could-receive-grants-through-purple-line-program/#:~:text=11%20that%20grants%20between%20%241%2C000,PLTP)%20is%20funding%20the%20program." rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">COMMUTER NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="66" class="govd_template_image" height="149" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201188/download_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>HOV Enforcement Ramps Up on I-66 Outside the Capital Beltway in Virginia</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Virginia State Police have ramped up enforcement on I-66. Learn more <a href="https://wtop.com/virginia/2023/08/hov-enforcement-ramps-up-on-i-66-outside-the-capital-beltway-in-virginia/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Maryland Seeks Federal Grant to Rebuild American Legion Bridge, I-495 Toll Lanes</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://wtop.com/maryland/2023/08/state-seeks-federal-grant-to-rebuild-american-legion-bridge-i-495-toll-lanes/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Virginia Studies Adding Beltway Express Lanes From Springfield to Maryland</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Virginia Department of Transportation is studying whether to add more express lanes to the Virginia side of the Beltway. The lanes would run from Springfield through Alexandria and across the Potomac River to Maryland. The study also looks at the possibility of extending Metro across the Wilson Bridge to the National Harbor area. A decision on whether or not to build the lanes is expected next year. Learn more <a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/transportation/virginia-studies-adding-beltway-express-lanes-from-springfield-to-maryland/3420900/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Laurel MARC Station is Closed for 10 Weeks for Platform Replacement</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">The </span><span data-contrast="none">closure</span><span data-contrast="none"> started Monday, Aug. 21 for a project that will replace both platforms, stairs and ramps at the station. The closure is scheduled to last until Sunday, Oct. 29. Learn more </span><a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/articles/399" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">NATIONAL NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="seatbeltwarning3" class="govd_template_image" height="247" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8202253/4967552/fastenseatbealt_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>NHTSA Proposes Seat Belt Warning System Expansion to Encourage Drivers and Passengers to Buckle Up</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a proposed rule that requires automobile manufacturers to equip vehicles with seat belt use warning systems for the right front passenger and rear seats to increase seat belt use. Learn more <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/nhtsa-proposes-seat-belt-warning-system-expansion" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="carseats5" class="govd_template_image" height="196" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8202238/4969856/day-5-nhtsa-cps-53088_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 222px;" width="222" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Child Passenger Safety Week is September 20-26</strong></h3><p align="start" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly half (46%) of car seats are misused. This safety campaign is dedicated to helping parents and caregivers make sure their children ride as safely as possible - every trip, every time. Learn more at <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/right-seat" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">nhtsa.gov/right-seat</a>.</p><p align="start" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Did You Know? </strong>Montgomery County residents can schedule a free in-person or virtual car seat check. View resources, tips and schedule a seat belt check on Montgomery County's Fire and Rescue Service's website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/tips/parents/carseats.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="articlety" class="govd_template_image" height="161" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200249/4967554/article3455657_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>On the Rebound: Micromobility Makes a Full Recovery from COVID-19</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">About 157 million trips were taken with micromobility devices in 2022, mirroring the level of ridership in 2019. The increase seems to indicate a full recovery from the steep pandemic downturn. The scooters and bikes are back. </span><span data-contrast="none">Those rentable e-scooters and bikes are an indisputable presence on the American urban landscape, serving as low-carbon options for millions of trips. Read the Gov Tech article </span><a href="https://www.govtech.com/fs/on-the-rebound-micromobility-makes-a-full-recovery-from-covid-19" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="articloorrr" class="govd_template_image" height="216" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200335/articletranstoday4_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>AAA Report: Annual Ownership Costs for New Cars Up to $12,000</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">A new report from AAA’s Your Driving Costs has found that owning and operating a new vehicle costs more than $12,000 a year. The sharp increase comes from higher car prices and financing rates. Read the Transportation Today article </span><a href="https://transportationtodaynews.com/news/31186-aaa-report-annual-ownership-costs-for-new-cars-up-to-12000/?utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=transportation-today-s-top-5-articles-of-the-week_40" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomofooter" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/10/2889009/2899353/mcdotfooter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For more information on MCDOT projects and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news to your mobile phone or email inbox.</p></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">SEPTEMBER 2023</h3><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="lgsqsocial" class="govd_template_image" height="121" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8191948/4970444/lgsqmcdotsocial_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 align="center" style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">SEE WHAT MCDOT IS UP TO THIS MONTH</h2><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="septcalendar" class="govd_template_image" height="154" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8191953/4967556/sept2023calendar_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /></a><p align="center" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em; text-align: center;"><em>Click the image above.</em></p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/oemhs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="septprepare6" class="govd_template_image" height="245" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8211660/4970445/septprepare_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>September is National Preparedness Month</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Check these preparedness <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OEMHS/plan/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">tips</a> and sign </span><span data-contrast="none">up for </span><a href="https://member.everbridge.net/1332612387832009/login" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alert Montgomery</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":240,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="flashatevent2022" class="govd_template_image" height="253" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7156905/4967561/flash33_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Visit MCDOT at These Upcoming Community Events</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Saturday, <strong>Sept. 23<br /></strong><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169325964" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Poolesville Day</a> hosts <a href="https://driveelectricweek.org/event?eventid=3593" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Drive Electric Week</a> - <br />MCDOT will provide Ride On electric shuttle bus service during this event</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Sunday, <strong>Sept. 24</strong> <br /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169634936" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Friendship Heights Picnic</a>.<strong> </strong></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Sunday, <strong>Oct. 1</strong> <br /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169326404" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Takoma Park Street Festival</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Saturday, <strong>Oct. 7<br /></strong><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169797466" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Taste of Bethesda</a>. </li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Sunday, <strong>Oct. 8</strong> <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169326953" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Oktoberfest</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Friday, <strong>Oct, 13</strong><br /><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169797689" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">National Heritage Month Celebration</a> - Marian Fryer Town Plaza, Wheaton.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="walktoschool2023" class="govd_template_image" height="188" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8199746/4967557/walk-bike-rolltoschool_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Schools Can Register for Walk and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 4</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Schools can <a href="https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">register online</a> for Walk and Roll to School Day, a day to promote active lifestyles and safe routes to school. Don’t miss out on the fun and your chance to be a part of the movement for healthier, safer, and more active communities.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">This year MCDOT Pedestrian Safety team will be hosting the event at Burnt Mills Elementary School to promote safety to students, faculty and families.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="wearehiring" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5808003/4967559/nowhiring5_crop.gif" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 aria-level="3" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT is Hiring!</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":2,"335559738":45,"335559739":60,"335559740":270}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"d268544a-f5ad-46c4-9b59-4093db85ec05|173","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"contentpasted28",201340122,"2",134233614,"true",469778129,"contentpasted28",335572020,"1",201342448,"1",469777841,"Calibri",469777842,"Calibri",469777843,"Calibri",469777844,"Calibri",469769226,"Calibri",335551500,"4278190080",268442635,"22",335559740,"240",201341983,"0",335559739,"0",469778324,"Normal"]}" data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Senior Planning Specialist</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> (</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">IRC59578</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">)</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="2" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="none">Capital Projects Manager (IRC 57387)</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="3" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Senior Engineer (</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">IRC58960)</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Senior Engineer Technician</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> (</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">IRC59579</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">)</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Engineer Technician I/II</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> (</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">IRC59559</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">)</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto">Engineer III/II/I Fiber - Telecom (IRC59484)</span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Traffic </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">Management</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> Technician</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> I/II</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28"> (</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">IRC59483</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted28">)</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="auto">Engineer Technician I/II Sign & Marking Shop (IRC59447)</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559684":-2,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-listid="1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span data-contrast="none">Senior Planning Specialist (IRC58781)</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":810,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">For details on the above job postings search the IRC number on Montgomery County's Career website </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUsuUxh5tcCBlnAQbJGWuj6TBmY-jM86DdrZ-L5xReCGWdZsPCvGmQTPH0Vvxv1dsEJP1eXfuDI3mOgwt6Wooe1_t7w-fEASXDo1ZXOvYMczQAvFlsI6XOdpRz3T8ouWHzpYe0nubmEGqUvrGlT4o-8FHqTcupEl2usSCliDRY80OAIryTgxjUwfZ6i8/s1024/careerfairscr.png" style="background-color: #e3f2ff; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1024" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUsuUxh5tcCBlnAQbJGWuj6TBmY-jM86DdrZ-L5xReCGWdZsPCvGmQTPH0Vvxv1dsEJP1eXfuDI3mOgwt6Wooe1_t7w-fEASXDo1ZXOvYMczQAvFlsI6XOdpRz3T8ouWHzpYe0nubmEGqUvrGlT4o-8FHqTcupEl2usSCliDRY80OAIryTgxjUwfZ6i8/w210-h113/careerfairscr.png" width="210" /></a><br /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Participates in Career Fair and Hiring Expo on Tuesday, October</strong><strong> 3</strong><strong>,</strong><strong> in Silver Spring</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Residents 18-and-over interested in a rewarding career in public service can register to attend the upcoming career fair that will be held between 3-7 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building located at 1 Veterans Place. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">MCDOT will have a table promoting open positions and will conduct interviews onsite. </span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Register in advance at </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/hr/recruitment/jobfairs.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/<br />jobfair</a><span data-contrast="none">. For questions, email </span><a href="mailto:jobfair@montgomerycountymd.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">jobfair@<br />montgomerycountymd.gov</a><span data-contrast="none">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 align="center" style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strong>COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT</strong></h2><img alt="2022mcdotbikeclasses" class="govd_template_image" height="144" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/03/5650502/4967564/adultbikeclasses2022c_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Sponsors Adult Bike Classes This Fall</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">MCDOT will continue its series of fall classes to teach adults how to ride bicycles—and how to do it safely. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Each class begins at 10 a.m. and lasts for three hours. The classes are open to residents 18-and-over who have never ridden a bike or who have not done so in a long time.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Advance registration is required to participate and costs $10 for Montgomery County residents. There is no charge for WABA or Capital Bikeshare members. </span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Visit </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/bikewalk/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">tinyurl.com/</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">cycleclss</span></span></a><span data-contrast="none"> for class times, to register and for rain dates.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559685":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="escooterclass2022-a" class="govd_template_image" height="221" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/08/6315338/4280639/spin-scooterclass_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Sponsors Free Electric Scooter Safety Training for Individuals 18+ This Fall</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Participants can take a test ride, learn safety tips and get details on basic e-scooter laws. Drop by anytime during the two-hour class on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 1-3 p.m. at the Upper County Recreation Center located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/8201+Emory+Grove+Rd,+Gaithersburg,+MD+20877/@39.1498383,-77.1686424,17.52z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7d31e92d81e27:0xf153e8857cf8a148!8m2!3d39.1500001!4d-77.1671796!16s%2Fg%2F11c43rxbcj?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">8201 Emory Grove Rd.</a> in Gaithersburg.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Individuals must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license or ID. Visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/bikewalk/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">tinyurl.com/cycleclss</a> for rain dates.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="bikedrive2018a" class="govd_template_image" height="232" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2018/10/2225250/4967565/img-5482_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Save the Date for MCDOT's Annual Bike Drive on Friday, October 20</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":240,"335559740":240}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">A </span><span data-contrast="none"><a href="https://bit.ly/3Lo1vFN" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">bicycle donation event</a> </span><span data-contrast="none">sponsored by MCDOT will provide bicycles for kids and adults in need. Bikes will be collected from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m., <span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted0"> on Friday, Oct. 2,</span></span> outside of the Council Office Building </span><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/E+Jefferson+St+%26+Monroe+St,+Rockville,+MD+20850/@39.0818205,-77.1495574,18.29z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b7cd0aa2d8544d:0x8260f429df118c6e!8m2!3d39.0819927!4d-77.1491799" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">parking garage</a><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted0"> at the corner of East Jefferson and Monroe streets in </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="contentpasted0">Rockville.</span></span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Donated child and adult bikes will be accepted. Residents may also donate financially to the program. Tax receipts will be available for all donations.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":240,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="seniorseatbeltonrideonbus" class="govd_template_image" height="176" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200099/4967560/ads005_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Seniors Discover Ride On Bus System</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"d268544a-f5ad-46c4-9b59-4093db85ec05|180","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color",201340122,"1",134233614,"true",469778129,"yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color",335572020,"1",469778324,"Default Paragraph Font"]}" data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color">Montgomery County seniors can </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color">participate</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color"> in a free public transportation training class hosted by the <a href="https://accessjca.org/connect-a-ride/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Jewish Council on Aging</a> and learn how to trip plan using the Ride On trip Planner App. </span></span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color">Seniors 65+ ride on Ride On buses FREE with a Senior </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color">SmarTrip</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color"> card.</span></span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Hear from some of our seniors in this video <a href="https://youtu.be/NlpY77yi_wc" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":259}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="customerappreciationday" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/07/2693706/4967562/custapprecday-rockvillemetrooct30_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Celebrates Riders During Customer Appreciation Event at Takoma Metro Station</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D169910734" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="ped safetyevents" class="govd_template_image" height="170" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8199957/4969857/clarksburgpedsafetyoutreach_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT to Promote Pedestrian Safety at TGIF Friday Night Concert Series at Marian Fryer Town Plaza in Wheaton</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View the schedule <a href="https://www.wheatonmd.org/do/tgif-encore" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>. Take the Ride On bus for $1. Use the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Ride On Trip Planner app</a> to find a bus stop close to you.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="walktober2023-5" class="govd_template_image" height="103" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200025/4967566/walktober-header-2023_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Walktober is Right Around the Corner</strong><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></h3></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">The annual monthly celebration of walking brings a number of fun events to the area. </span><span data-contrast="none">October in Maryland becomes <a href="https://mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=136" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">WALKTOBER</a>, a month where transportation agencies promote and host events and webinars spotlighting Maryland pedestrians' safety, health, and commuting options.</span></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Look out for events such as <a href="https://www.walkbiketoschool.org/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Walk and Roll to School Day</a>, </span>and <span data-contrast="none"><a href="https://mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=79" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Walk Maryland Day</a>, both on Wednesday, Oct. 4. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span data-contrast="none">Check </span><span data-contrast="none">the </span><span data-contrast="none">MCDOT </span><span data-contrast="none"><a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">main webpage</a> slider</span><span data-contrast="none"> in early October for more events and activities. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 align="center" style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">MCDOT MAINTAINING THE INFRASTRUCTURE</h2><img alt="mcdotstreetlights" class="govd_template_image" height="220" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8199874/4967567/streetlights6_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Did You Know MCDOT Manages Streetlights?</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT is responsible for over 68,000 Streetlights countywide. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">You can report county-owned streetlight outages or malfunctions online <a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/SolutionView.aspx?SolutionId=1-4FBRLD" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Streetlights on wooden utility poles are owned and maintained by PEPCO. Contact PEPCO at 877-737-2662. In addition, Potomac Edison may be reached at 888-544-4877 and BG&E at 877-778-2222.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="mcdotgutterwork" class="govd_template_image" height="123" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8201571/4967568/gutterwork_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Sidewalk, Curb & Gutter Projects </strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The following projects began this month and will take approximately 8-10 weeks to complete (weather permitting). Work is taking place Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Kemp%20Mill%20Estates%20Phase%20I.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Kemp Mill Estates</a>, Silver Spring <em>between Kemp Mill Road and Lamberton Road</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Manor%20Lake.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Manor Lake</a>, Rockville <em>between Bauer Drive and Norbeck Road</em>.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View additional MCDOT projects in process <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/concrete/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">If you have <a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/Solutions.aspx?SolutionId=1-234EX8" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">curb/gutter</a> or <a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/Solutions.aspx?SolutionId=1-234OXX" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">sidewalk</a> damage in your neighborhood, submit an online request for repair to MC311 by calling 311 (or 240-777-0311).</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Rockville (240.314.8500) and Gaithersburg (301.258.6370) cities are responsible for their own roadways and sidewalks within their city limits. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/Schaeffer-Rd-Bridge/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="Schaefferbridge" class="govd_template_image" height="258" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/09/8200010/schaefferrdbridge-map-rsz_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 188px;" width="188" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Seeks Public Feedback on the Schaeffer Road Bridge Project</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">If you missed the virtual meeting last Wednesday, Sept. 6, you can still provide comments by Friday, Oct. 6 through an online form <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-bEBbuWxc0Csl3eAaaCtZLPF0w9MYDdJp47Wu_XBy_VUMEFTSVczTUxUQ1ZTME1DN1RZTlIxTVlVWC4u&web=1&wdLOR=c285F6710-3053-482E-8C16-6D2726D7176D" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Visit the project website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/Schaeffer-Rd-Bridge/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="callmc311" class="govd_template_image" height="221" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/03/7324306/4804427/mc311-getitdone_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 169.189px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif") repeat-x; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 538.159px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-5607698379103729952023-09-13T15:57:00.008-04:002023-09-15T12:30:22.430-04:00Montgomery County Residents Encouraged to Participate in Annual ‘Car-Free Day' to be Held on Friday, September 22; Register to Participate for Raffled Prizes<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONgwWmGKRedO1mph2nF9KCJ3LIhXtVycq0Ag4suRlA708HoeLs0Mzn5ftC6zsTwB0yq9lWPmhTqSYnjJtjrWmdhk3LtbVdjjfUeTtFqdv1xOwpx9pVydn2SJZNqPhCg_NyJdeuAdYWg14wRl5sPJaBIzbJ5dXnwprFVVMvRsdSGXoHr_u_vGHnJW0Z34/s1296/carfreeday2023.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="1296" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONgwWmGKRedO1mph2nF9KCJ3LIhXtVycq0Ag4suRlA708HoeLs0Mzn5ftC6zsTwB0yq9lWPmhTqSYnjJtjrWmdhk3LtbVdjjfUeTtFqdv1xOwpx9pVydn2SJZNqPhCg_NyJdeuAdYWg14wRl5sPJaBIzbJ5dXnwprFVVMvRsdSGXoHr_u_vGHnJW0Z34/w640-h344/carfreeday2023.png" width="640" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">MCDOT encourages Montgomery County
residents to participate in </span><a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/" style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #1d5782;">Car Free Day</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">, a worldwide event that
encourages traveling in ways that are greener than driving alone, such as
walking, riding a bicycle, rail, bus, in a carpool or teleworking. Using more
sustainable ways to get around helps reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and
traffic congestion. The more people that travel using alternative modes, the
<a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/world-car-free-day-22-september-great-opportunity-reduce-air-pollution" target="_blank">fewer greenhouse gases are released</a> into the atmosphere.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 10pt;">MCDOT will provide a “fare-free day” on Ride On buses. The action is coordinated with the <span style="color: #333333;">Maryland Transit Administration </span>who is <a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/articles/402" target="_blank">offering </a></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.3333px;"><a href="https://www.mta.maryland.gov/articles/402" target="_blank">free rides</a> on Local Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC, Commuter Bus and Mobility service starting Friday, Sept. 22, through Sunday, Sept. 24. </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">Residents are invited to take the
pledge to participate in Car Free Day by going car-free or car-lite on Friday,
Sept. 22. Each entry will be entered into a raffle for some great <a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/prizes-promotions/"><span style="color: #1d5782;">prizes</span></a>. Duplicate entries will be
disqualified. Participants can take the pledge online <a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/the-car-free-pledge/?platform=hootsuite"><span style="color: #1d5782;">here</span></a>.</span></p><p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">MCDOT’s Commuter Services team will be at the following locations with free giveaways and pledge cards that can be filled out to enter in a raffle drawing for gift cards, Capital Bikeshare annual membership or a $200 Smart Trip card:</span></p><p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Bethesda Metro Station</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Friendship Heights Shops at Wisconsin Place</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Germantown Transit Center</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Shady Grove Metro Station</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Silver Spring Metro Station</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Twinbrook Metro Station</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Wheaton Marian Fryer Plaza</b>. 6:30 am to 8:30 am</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>White Oak Transit Center</b>. 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Lake Forest Transit Center</b>. 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.</span></span></li><li><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13.3333px;"><b>Wheaton Marian Fryer Plaza at the Hispanic Heritage Festival</b>. 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.</span></span></li></ul><p></p><p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"></p>
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<p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;">Residents and employees working in the County who do not have a bike available can use the Capitol Bikeshare system. Thousands of pedal bikes and e-bikes are provided throughout the region, including Montgomery County. Check out a bike and return it to any bikeshare station near your destination. Single trip, daily and yearly memberships are available. The first 30 minutes of each trip is free. Visit the Bikeshare location map <a href="https://bit.ly/3htsHE9"><span style="color: #1d5782;">here</span></a>. </span></p><p style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Many shared e-scooters are also available in higher activity areas of the County for use by those taking short trips or to get to and from transit. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.3333px;">Visit:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/index.html" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.3333px;">montgomerycountymd.gov/commute</a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13.3333px;">and click on Bike and Scooter Sharing for more information.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt; margin: 12pt 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt;">Participants can take the pledge at </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/the-car-free-pledge">carfreemetrodc.org/the-car-free-pledge</a><span style="color: #333333;">. </span></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt; margin: 12pt 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirL75_-LiJjFapvAEVjoIO8SDIWWjtFWBB-ynkbhxZa4_O-1vp9PMIYH87NGNpA-C5wNehrMVGK1Bm5QI41Pb6AOPKSpLSVqGQ3tEqOykBSlapaRsMF1FQOOFQjNWrGrPfQIPCp-Xpv-nxfqLhyYO2yOFFebCxP_esnOVz3WdFoQAxetf8RTIwnqhvkx4/s528/COG%202023%20Social%20C1_V2_CFD-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="528" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirL75_-LiJjFapvAEVjoIO8SDIWWjtFWBB-ynkbhxZa4_O-1vp9PMIYH87NGNpA-C5wNehrMVGK1Bm5QI41Pb6AOPKSpLSVqGQ3tEqOykBSlapaRsMF1FQOOFQjNWrGrPfQIPCp-Xpv-nxfqLhyYO2yOFFebCxP_esnOVz3WdFoQAxetf8RTIwnqhvkx4/w400-h400/COG%202023%20Social%20C1_V2_CFD-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf4vNhp3bUBeKnfhDf-Wa8BDzfF7GrSOI0ouoRF3Dlrx_qkX3HOowHy8oQFtWBQ-6haFJ1nJCKvifAaY3k01-UfDCmgsPpIxcKsxHRKwtj4hgCpnoinPzPou7Vms-2SH70MF6Zs2-8tJQDHLRu_DdjptRnhRUcq_Gvq_BMMRn5fXmquNv-rNNsOTlfrE/s528/COG%202023%20Social%20C1_V2_CFD-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="528" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf4vNhp3bUBeKnfhDf-Wa8BDzfF7GrSOI0ouoRF3Dlrx_qkX3HOowHy8oQFtWBQ-6haFJ1nJCKvifAaY3k01-UfDCmgsPpIxcKsxHRKwtj4hgCpnoinPzPou7Vms-2SH70MF6Zs2-8tJQDHLRu_DdjptRnhRUcq_Gvq_BMMRn5fXmquNv-rNNsOTlfrE/w400-h400/COG%202023%20Social%20C1_V2_CFD-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.3333px;"><br /></span><p></p><h1 style="margin: 12pt 0in; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: large;"><a href="http://CARFREEMETRODC.ORG">CARFREEMETRODC.ORG</a></span></h1>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-89042850785449178392023-08-10T14:40:00.005-04:002023-08-14T11:10:32.787-04:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter is Now Available for AUGUST 2023<br /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td background="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/bulletins/%7B%22image_url%22=%3E%22http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png%22,%20%22image_id%22=%3E184777,%20%22image_name%22=%3E%22noise%20background%22,%20%22repeat%22=%3E%22repeat%22,%20%22str%22=%3E%22background-image:%20url(http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png);background-repeat:%20repeat;%22,%20%22image_height%22=%3E118%7D" bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #e3f2ff; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png") repeat rgb(227, 242, 255); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; width: 700px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT LATEST NEWS</h1><a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="abuelina" class="govd_template_image" height="214" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033869/4903141/abuelineengscr_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County Launches ‘Lessons from La Abuelina’ Campaign to Help Drivers and Pedestrians Safely Navigate New Crosswalk Devices</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Emmy <a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/07/la-abuelina-covid-19-prevention.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">award-winning</a> campaign “La Abuelina” has joined the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Vision Zero</a> Initiative’s pedestrian safety team to educate residents about how to safely navigate the newly installed <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/crosssafe.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">pedestrian hybrid beacons</a> (PHBs) located across Montgomery County. After the animated character “La Abuelina” was used to urge Spanish speaking residents to get COVID-19 vaccinations, she will now be featured in English and Spanish social media posts and pop-up events located at PHBs to help explain how the traffic control devices offer extra protection to drivers and people walking, biking and rolling across the street. While the outreach events scheduled throughout July and August have ended, the campaign continues on social media platforms online and with signage aboard Ride On buses. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43769&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="treedebrisfromstorms" class="govd_template_image" height="253" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8035860/4903235/3treework-mcdot_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Continues Tree Removal from Severe Thunderstorms</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT has received over 1,400 tree related requests (for hanging limbs, damaged trees, trees blocking signals or signs, etc.) due to the recent storms. 90% of work has been completed and crews will continue for at least another week</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT crews continue storm cleanup efforts after severe storms with high winds and heavy rain caused damage the past two weeks. Crews worked around the clock to address over 1,700 requests for downed trees and secure streets that had downed electrical wires. Crews will continue to address tree damage for at least another week. If you see a tree or debris blocking a roadway or sidewalk, or street/signal outages report it at MCDOT's <em>Get It Fixed</em> website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/get-it-fixed.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a> or call MC311 at 311 or 240-777-0311.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://ex12.montgomerycountymd.gov/ojn1/ijn1/OA_HTML/OA.jsp?page=/oracle/apps/irc/candidateSelfService/webui/VisVacDispPG&OAHP=IRC_EXT_SITE_VISITOR_APPL&OASF=IRC_VIS_VAC_DISPLAY&akRegionApplicationId=821&transactionid=1060465541&retainAM=N&addBreadCrumb=RP&p_svid=59238&p_spid=2832700&oapc=10&oas=kTrOpQJYwFodO9d88y3xoA" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="mcdothiringaug" class="govd_template_image" height="397" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033717/4903142/f2njwhmxmaaqufp_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT PUBLIC EVENTS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="mcdot-bike-scooterclasses" class="govd_template_image" height="309" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8039824/4904722/bikescooterclassesbymcdot_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Offers Adult Bike and Scooter Classes this September, October and November</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In collaboration with the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), MCDOT is offering both Learn to Ride and Basic Skills classes for adults 18+. Advance registration is required and costs $10 for Montgomery County residents or no charge for WABA or <a href="https://capitalbikeshare.com/pricing/for-all" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Capital Bikeshare For All</a> members. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT will also offer four FREE, walk-up scooter classes following select bike classes. View locations and details <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43823&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="Flash at MC Agricultural Fair - August 12 - 20" class="govd_template_image" height="229" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7148526/4904407/flash-at-mc-agricultural-fair-august-12-20-6_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 228px;" width="228" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Stop By MCDOT’s Booth at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair, August 11-19</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT will staff a large booth from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the <a href="https://mcagfair.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Montgomery County Agricultural Fair</a> that runs August 11-19. From bus drivers to pedestrian safety advocates and highway services emergency response team members will be there with games and prizes and to distribute helpful information.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">To save time and money, attendees are encouraged to take the Ride On bus when visiting the fairgrounds on Perry Parkway in Gaithersburg. Learn more and view bus routes <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/08/stop-by-mcdots-booth-at-montgomery.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="backtoschool2023" class="govd_template_image" height="311" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033270/4904631/backtoschoolfair_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Promotes Pedestrian Safety at MCPS Back-to-School Fair, Saturday, Aug. 26</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the MCDOT Pedestrian Safety Team will take part in the Montgomery County Public School’s (MCPS) <a href="https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/community-engagement/fair/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Back to School Fair</a> at Westfield Wheaton all located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/11160+Veirs+Mill+Rd,+Wheaton,+MD+20902/@39.0361801,-77.0515228,17.52z/data=!3m1!5s0x89b7cf19548c12e1:0x7edf0a3a9fd8f4ac!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x89b7cf19548c12e3:0x89e932853de3356e!2s11160+Veirs+Mill+Rd,+Wheaton,+MD+20902!3b1!8m2!3d39.0359602!4d-77.0505997!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3zq3hp!3m5!1s0x89b7cf19548c12e3:0x89e932853de3356e!8m2!3d39.0359602!4d-77.0505997!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3zq3hp?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">11160 Veirs Mill Rd</a>. in Wheaton. The team will prepare students to have a safe school year by <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/Resources/Files/PedSafety_SpanishSafetyBroRND_ToPrint_101122.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">sharing tips</a> for <a href="https://roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=376" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">pedestrian</a> and <a href="https://roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=357" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">bike safety</a>. Attendees will also learn about the school system, and other county programs and services. The public is invited to attend and enjoy free music, entertainment, giveaways a free immunization clinic and youth activities.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Free shuttles will be offered from Montgomery Blair, Paint Branch, Gaithersburg, and Richard Montgomery high schools. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="nationalniteout2023" class="govd_template_image" height="264" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033148/4904449/national-night-out-olney-md-53087962254sm_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Celebrates National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 1</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT joined the Montgomery County Police Department and other agencies for this <a href="https://www.mymcmedia.org/thousands-attend-multiple-national-night-out-events/?mc_cid=18422d651f&mc_eid=6bce1c3097" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">annual event</a> which is held the first Tuesday of every August and provides an opportunity for the community to engage with police officers and others in public safety, while enjoying food, entertainment and family activities.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Flash outreach team and MCDOT’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">TRips Mobile Commuter Store</a> were a part of the event at the White Oak Garden Apartments in Silver Spring. where more than 130 residents spoke with staff about <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-dir/CommTravelOptions.html#options" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">commuting options</a>, <a href="https://www.capitalbikeshare.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Capital Bikeshare</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/ride.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On</a> and other transportation alternatives. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Pedestrian Safety team <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/albums/72177720310205594" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">participated</a> in the event at the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.olneymd.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F2023-national-night-out-5884&data=05%7C01%7CRoselle.Paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7C97edc8d33bf84c1557cf08db8252a2fb%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C0%7C638247063676934135%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uY%2FRL1wTynPMW55BxTXVWVtqhHHOQjCT4XbD0vtK0Rw%3D&reserved=0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Fair Hill Shopping Center</a> in Olney.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT PROJECTS & PROGRAMS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="schaefferbridge" class="govd_template_image" height="311" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033214/4904450/schaeffer-road-bridge-no-m-0137-over-little-seneca-_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><h3 class="elementtoproof" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Virtual Public Meeting on the Schaeffer Road Bridge Over Little Seneca Creek Replacement Project in Poolesville to be Held on Wednesday, Sept. 6</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Starting at 7 p.m., MCDOT will present the project details, costs, schedules and obtain public comments and answer questions regarding the replacement of the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/Schaeffer-Rd-Bridge/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Schaeffer Road Bridge Over Little Seneca Creek</a>. The bridge inspection revealed that the structure is in poor condition, considered structurally deficient and needs replacement. The completed project will enhance safety for motorists and bicyclists as they travel to nearby schools and facilities.</p><p align="start" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://forms.office.com/g/0fUvnv8WcF" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Online registration</a> is required to attend. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43826&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="seniorconnectionlogo" class="govd_template_image" height="209" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901951/4904632/seniorconnection4_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 222px;" width="222" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Partners with Senior Connection</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County residents aged 60+ can receive rides and assistance getting groceries through Senior Connection, a local non-profit that provides an array of free services and workshops on how to use public transit and assists with applications for programs like <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/seniors.html#Call-n-Ride" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Call-n-Ride</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/seniors.html#metroaccess" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Metro Access</a>. For more information, call 301-962-0820 or visit <a href="https://www.seniorconnectionmc.org/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">seniorconnectionmc.org</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="usebikeshare" class="govd_template_image" height="307" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/10/5033871/4904633/cabi2021qsm_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Free Bikeshare Membership for Qualified Participants Living or Working in Montgomery County</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Capital Bikeshare offers affordable, accessible, and fun transportation options for everyone, regardless of income. You can still get the classic red and gold cruiser that makes riding comfortable in a variety of urban and suburban settings. Or, go for the all black or gray and gold e-bike with always-on pedal-assist technology. That’s <a href="https://capitalbikeshare.com/how-it-works/meet-the-bikes" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">two ways</a> to enjoy convenient two-wheeled transportation.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Be sure to also check out Capital Bikeshare’s special initiatives, such as its equity program called Capital Bikeshare for All. It’s available to residents of Montgomery County and certain other D.C.-area jurisdictions, ages 18 and older who qualify for a state or federal assistance program. View eligibility and program information at <a href="https://capitalbikeshare.com/pricing/for-all" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">capitalbikeshare.com/pricing/for-all</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="rusticroadmasterplan" class="govd_template_image" height="309" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/11/6667479/4904634/rusticroadsfunctionalmasterplan1996cover_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 228px;" width="228" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Council Updates the Rustic Roads Master Plan</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Rustic roads are historic and scenic roadways that reflect the agricultural character and rural origins of the County and have been protected by legislation. This classification restricts the type of maintenance that can be performed on these roads so that the rural character can be maintained. There are 112 Rustic Roads in Montgomery County and they are preserved and maintained by the MCDOT.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">ATTN: COMMUTERS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="95article" class="govd_template_image" height="240" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8034975/4904635/195express_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 228px;" width="228" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>New Section of 95 Express Lanes in N. Va. to Open Thursday, Aug. 17</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Toll operator Transurban announced the opening of this Fredericksburg extension, which will bring Virginia’s network of express lanes to nearly 100 miles, spanning Interstates 66, 95, 395 and 495. Read the Washington Post article <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/08/03/virginia-95-express-lanes-fredericksburg/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Pepco Project Closes Portion of Randolph Road in Rockville for Eight Weeks</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Pepco <a href="https://wtop.com/montgomery-county/2021/08/pepco-construction-expected-to-disrupt-traffic-in-rockville/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">project construction</a> has closed Randolph Road between Nebel Street and Parklawn Dr. to vehicular traffic. This is a daily closure between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., for 8 weeks. Pepco and MCDOT traffic control plan will allow eastbound traffic only on Randolph Rd. Westbound traffic will be detoured to Parklawn Dr. and to Rockville Pike (RT 355).</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Sidewalks on Randolph Rd. will remain open through construction.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Pepco is constructing a new substation in the White Flint area. This involves both underground transmission and overhead transmission construction. Work began in 2020 and is expected to be completed in 2024. Project details including detour information can be found online <a href="https://www.pepco.com/SiteCollectionDocuments/Pepco%20White%20Flint%20Community%20Meeting%20FINAL%208.21%20ADA.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>. View the project fact sheet <a href="https://www.pepco.com/MyAccount/MyBillUsage/Documents/Pepco%20White%20Flint%20Sub%20FACT%20SHEET%207.21_ADA.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For questions and feedback contact Pepco External Affairs Manager, Tony Ruffin at <a href="mailto:aruffin@pepco.com" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">aruffin@pepco.com</a>. Members of the news media can contact Pepco Media Relations anytime 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on the media hotline<strong> </strong>by calling, 202-872-2680.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>New Traffic Pattern Coming to Rockville Town Center in Early August</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The city’s contractor is planning final pavement markings in early August. New traffic patterns are expected on <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/E+Middle+Ln+%26+W+Middle+Ln,+Rockville,+MD+20850/@39.0848673,-77.1529633,390m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cd7494e6792b:0x5e8e69532537c47d!8m2!3d39.08497!4d-77.1529408!16s%2Fg%2F11gdz8glq1?entry=ttu" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">North Washington St. and East Middle Ln.</a> as the city’s contractor reallocates the existing motor vehicle travel lanes to create new bike lanes and on-street parking spaces. Learn more <a href="https://rockvillereports.com/new-traffic-pattern-coming-to-town-center-in-early-august/?utm_source=City+of+Rockville+Newsletters&utm_campaign=20a63d09e3-RockvilleReports08062023&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_feb7c13728-20a63d09e3-61201223&mc_cid=20a63d09e3&mc_eid=4b6a3aa666" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">PARNTER NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="partners-mcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="391" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8034928/4904454/partners_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>METRO</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro Will Roll Out All-Door Bus Boarding This Fall</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The initiative — set to debut in 450 buses, or about a third of the fleet, starting this year — is part of a large-scale effort to improve bus riders’ experience in the capital region. Learn more <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/07/27/metrobus-rear-door-boarding-dc/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.<strong> </strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro Testing Bus Signal Lights for More Convenient Rail to Bus Transfers</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Metro customers may soon notice strobing lights at some bus stops outside Metrorail stations to alert Metrobus operators when a train is approaching a station during off-peak hours (9 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. - midnight), allowing them to delay the bus’s departure to give customers time to make a quick connection to their bus. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Bus-transfer-lights.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>WMATA and DDOT Start 45-Day Minimum Warning Period for Clear Lanes Program</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Under the <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Clear-lanes-coming-to-the-District-to-make-your-Metrobus-trip-smoother-and-more-reliable.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">program</a>, which aims to improve bus speed and reliability, cameras mounted on Metrobuses will capture video and photos of vehicles illegally operating, parking, standing or stopping in dedicated bus lanes and bus zones. Read the Mass Transit article <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/bus/press-release/53067240/wmatawashington-metropolitan-area-transit-authority-wmata-and-ddot-start-45day-minimum-warning-period-for-clear-lanes-program?utm_source=MASS+NewsViews+Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS230726064&o_eid=7429H9495878E2B&rdx.ident%5bpull%5d=omeda%7C7429H9495878E2B" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Metro's Customer Service Leader Eyes Navigation Improvements</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Read the Washington Post article <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/08/04/dc-metro-customer-service-improvements/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>PURPLE LINE/MARC RAIL</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Montgomery County Provides More Funds for Businesses Affected by Purple Line Construction</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Between Tuesday, Aug. 15 and Saturday, Sept. 30, businesses affected by the Purple Line Rail Project can <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/business/purple-line-grant/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">apply to receive $5,000</a> from the county’s Business Center.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The county will hold <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/business/calendar.html?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D168713228" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">informational sessions</a> on the program from Tuesday, Aug. 29 to Thursday, Aug. 31 at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dunatek/@38.9892892,-77.0269876,18.26z/data=!3m1!5s0x89b7c8bc4095afdd:0xce50c70d743c8b74!4m15!1m8!3m7!1s0x89b7c8bddac1ea0d:0x4e015a66bab946ed!2s8070+Georgia+Ave,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20910!3b1!8m2!3d38.9893759!4d-77.0270835!16s%2Fg%2F11c1zz__bs!3m5!1s0x89b7c8bc7c13fefd:0xcde29d58084da657!8m2!3d38.9893759!4d-77.0270834!16s%2Fg%2F11fk0blmy_?entry=ttu" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">8070 Georgia Ave</a>. in Silver Spring. Learn more <a href="https://montgomerycomd.blogspot.com/2023/08/small-businesses-along-purple-line.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MDOT MTA Purple Line Will Open in the Spring of 2027</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">An agreement between the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) and Purple Line Transit Partners (PLTP) will see the 16-mile Purple Line open for service in the spring of 2027. Learn more <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/rail/article/53066268/mdot-mta-purple-line-will-open-in-the-spring-of-2027?utm_source=MASS+NewsViews+Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS230718042&o_eid=7429H9495878E2B&rdx.ident%5bpull%5d=omeda%7C7429H9495878E2B" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Maryland's Laurel MARC Train Station Will Close Monday, Aug. 21 for 10 weeks</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The $2.6 million project is being undertaken to optimize safety for riders during and after construction, with passenger convenience a primary consideration in scheduling the work simultaneously on both platforms. Several alternate travel options are available. Learn more <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/technology/facilities/shelters-stations-fixtures-parking-lighting/press-release/53067877/maryland-transit-administration-mta-marylands-laurel-marc-train-station-will-close-aug-21-for-10-weeks" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">IN THE NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="tdmarticle" class="govd_template_image" height="234" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026680/4904636/tdmvarticle_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 177px;" width="177" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Registration is Open for the Annual Tour De Mount Vernon Community Bike Ride, Saturday, Oct. 21</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">This popular community bike ride starts and ends at George Washington’s Mount Vernon including a portion of the closed George Washington Memorial Parkway with beautiful views of the Potomac River. Riders can register for either the short (approx. 20 miles) or long (approx. 40 miles) ride. Take advantage of the Early Bird discount by registering before Fri., Sept.1. Learn more <a href="https://fabb-bikes.org/registration-open-for-8th-annual-tour-de-mount-vernon/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="https://ggwash.org/images/made/images/posts/_resized/Trail-Map_FY23-RAISE_610_800_90.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="trailmaps" class="govd_template_image" height="235" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8035021/4903155/trailmaps_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 180px;" width="180" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Improvements Coming to Maryland and DC Multi-Use Trails</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Six local trails for walking and biking across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties and in Washington, DC, will see improvements over the next few years through the rehabilitation of some of the region’s oldest trails and the construction of new trail segments. The trail projects will rehabilitate Sligo Creek Trail and Northwest Branch Trails.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The new trail segments add safe connections to Metro and passenger rail stations, including three future Purple Line light rail stations. They provide access for more than 600,000 residents within a mile and a half of the trails and active, sustainable commuting options to the 53,000 workers that are within a half-mile of the trails. Learn more <a href="https://ggwash.org/view/90459/improvements-coming-to-maryland-and-dc-multi-use-trails" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="smog" class="govd_template_image" height="188" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026572/4904637/smogarticle_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 179px;" width="179" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>August, Smog-ust: Why You Should Drive Less This Month</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Officials are asking residents to help limit air pollution by driving less this month. While much of the air pollution this summer has come from particulate matter drifting into the region from wildfires in Canada, there’s also plenty of homegrown pollution from the region's cars, trucks, and power plants. Chemicals from tailpipes and smokestacks interact in the presence of heat and sunlight, forming ground-level ozone, more familiarly known as smog.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">As much as a quarter of those chemical ingredients that form smog come from vehicles. And because smog needs heat and light to form, it’s usually worst in the hottest days of summer — in other words, right about now. Read the DCIST article <a href="https://dcist.com/story/23/08/01/dc-drive-less-august-ozone/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=DCIST_DAILY_08_01_23&utm_content=DCist+Daily+8/1/23" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="govtechart" class="govd_template_image" height="193" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026472/govtecharticle_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 180px;" width="180" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Downtown Travel has Not Recovered From COVID-19, Data Shows</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">A new report by INRIX shows that traffic and transit activity is still down in the nation’s largest cities when compared to pre-2020 levels, a sustained byproduct of remote work arrangements. Read the Government Technology article <a href="https://www.govtech.com/fs/downtown-travel-has-not-recovered-from-covid-19-data-shows" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="commrailarticle" class="govd_template_image" height="188" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026450/4903157/commmuterrailarticle_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 180px;" width="180" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>A Bright Future for Your Commuter Railway</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Public transit ridership, which had dwindled from 10% to 40% of its usual rates during the earliest stages of the pandemic, bounced back to 70% of pre-pandemic levels by the final months of 2022. Read the Metro Magazine article <a href="https://www.metro-magazine.com/10203392/a-bright-future-for-your-commuter-railway" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="smartcitiesarticle" class="govd_template_image" height="150" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026428/4904638/smartcitiesarticle_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 180px;" width="180" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>7 Automakers Form Massive EV Charging Network Joint Venture</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The collaboration will create one of the largest public EV charging networks in North America and will include 30,000 high-powered chargers. BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Stellantis and the Mercedes-Benz Group will collaborate in a <a href="https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0425639EN/seven-automakers-unite-to-create-a-leading-high-powered-charging-network-across-north-america?utm_source=article-extern&utm_campaign=BMW%20Group%20PressClub%20Global&utm_medium=Email" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">new joint venture</a> to install at least 30,000 high-powered electric vehicle chargers along major highways and in urban locations in North America, the companies said Wednesday.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The first charging stations will open in the U.S. in the summer of 2024, the companies said in a statement. Read the Smart Cities Dive article <a href="https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/electric-vehicle-ev-charging-Supercharger-joint-venture-Tesla-Honda-Hyundai-Kia-GM-BMW/689186/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="googlemapsarticle" class="govd_template_image" height="242" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8026467/4903159/googlemaps_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 190px;" width="190" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>People are Using Google Maps to Cut Down Tailpipe Pollution</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">A Google Maps feature showing the most fuel-efficient route has saved 1.2 million tons of carbon dioxide from reaching the atmosphere. Read the Verge article <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/24/23805652/google-maps-fuel-efficient-routes-transportation-emissions" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.283px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomofooter" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/10/2889009/2847579/mcdotfooter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For more information on MCDOT projects and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news to your mobile phone or email inbox. </p></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">AUGUST 2023</h3><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="social-ride-dot" class="govd_template_image" height="113" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/02/7147331/4904639/mcdot-rideonsocial_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and Threads. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="aug20234" class="govd_template_image" height="125" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033630/4903161/mcdotaugustcalendar_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Click the above calendar image to see what MCDOT is up to in August.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="chrisinterview8-8-23" class="govd_template_image" height="199" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8035362/4903162/aldiainterviewaug2023_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 class="xmsonormal" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Montgomery al Dia Interviews MCDOT Director Chris Conklin on Recent Storm Response, New Ride On Trip Planner App and Courtesy Stop Program</h3><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery al Día is Montgomery County’s Spanish language live Radio Show on Radio América 900 AM on Tuesdays at 2 p.m.</p><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Lorna Virgilí hosted this episode (556) on Tuesday, Aug. 8, watch online <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDr1t6PZffE" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="wearehiring" class="govd_template_image" height="140" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5808003/4165571/nowhiring5_crop.gif" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT is Hiring!</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Public Administration Associate/Program Specialist II (IRC57680)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Major Maintenance Project Manager (IRC59198)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Work Force Leader III (IRC58961)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Transportation Systems Technician I/II/III (IRC58678)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Capital Projects Manager (IRC 57387)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Senior Engineer (IRC58960)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">MLS Manager III (IRC57630)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Senior Planning Specialist (IRC58781)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Fiber-Telecom Engineer III/II/I (IRC57554)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Traffic Management Technician I/II (IRC58003)</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For details on the above job postings search the IRC number on Montgomery County's Career website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="whiteoaklibrary" class="govd_template_image" height="250" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8035154/4903163/whiteoaklibrary-rideonaug2023_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Attends White Oak Library's “Know Your County" Series in Honor of National Traffic Safety Awareness Month in Silver Spring</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Tuesday, Aug. 1 Ride On set up an information table at the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Library/branches/whiteoak.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">White Oak Library</a> to promote <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/taxi_reg/taxi_user.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">taxi</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/CommTravelOptions.html#commuter" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">commuter services</a> and other MCDOT programs as well as greeting patrons with fun giveaway items.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Stop by the library located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/11701+New+Hampshire+Ave,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20904/@39.0480614,-76.9920834,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c57430c50cdb:0xe3695d292cb8a67a!8m2!3d39.0480614!4d-76.9920834!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3yyjhz?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">11701 New Hampshire Ave</a>. anytime this month (in August) to learn about other County services and programs.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="carfree45" class="govd_template_image" height="186" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8039012/4904455/cfday2023-4_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Registration is Open for Car Free Day</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents are invited to take the pledge to participate in <a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Car Free Day</a> on Thursday, Sept. 22. This worldwide event encourages traveling in ways that are greener than driving alone, such as walking, riding a bicycle, rail, bus, in a carpool or teleworking. Each entry will be entered into a raffle for some great <a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/prizes-promotions/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">prizes</a>. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. Participants can take the pledge online <a href="https://www.carfreemetrodc.org/the-car-free-pledge/?platform=hootsuite" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="laborday464646" class="govd_template_image" height="140" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2747831/2779824/labor-day3-e1441613832929_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT's Holiday Schedule for the Labor Day Holiday, Monday, Sept. 4</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Offices</strong> - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On and Flash</strong> - Operating on a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Sunday schedule</a>. </li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Flex</strong> <strong>and extRa</strong> - Not in service.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center</strong> - Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store</strong> - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Public Garage, Lot and Meter Parking at Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton</strong> - Free.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="stopforschoolbus" class="govd_template_image" height="186" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8027047/4903164/stopforschoolbuses_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>School Will Soon be in Session – Stay Alert, Stay Safe!</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Be sure to <a href="https://www.localdvm.com/news/maryland/school-bus-safety-laws-drivers-need-to-remember-as-kids-head-back-to-school/?nxs_link=big-story_1_title_2&email=73893fc4415cad1f2c606f1dba1fde6307079717&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=WDVM%20Daily%20News%202021-08-23&utm_term=Daily%20News" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">always stop for school buses</a> when their lights are <a href="https://zerodeathsmd.gov/news/stop-on-red-knowing-when-to-stop-for-school-buses/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">flashing red</a> and their stop arms are extended. View the Maryland school bus laws and safety tips <a href="https://zerodeathsmd.gov/news/maryland-school-bus-laws-and-safety-tips/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Did You Know? </strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">All Montgomery County School buses are equipped with safety cameras that will capture the images of drivers who neglect to stop for school buses in the process of dropping off and picking up students. Negligent drivers will receive a civil <a href="https://www2.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/siteassets/schools/elementary-schools/d-g/foxchapeles/uploadedfiles/news/bussafety.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">citation and fine</a> of $250 if it is <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/pol/howdoI/pay-schoolbus-ticket.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">camera-generated</a> or as high as $570 and 3 points on the driver’s license for a police-issued citation.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="flooding3" class="govd_template_image" height="105" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/09/4892440/3713902/turnarounddontdrown_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Turn Around Don’t Drown</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT crews were busy with road closures and flooding from the recent severe thunderstorms. Be sure to watch out for flooded roadways. Follow these tips:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Watch out for overhead hazards such as broken tree limbs, wires and other debris.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Avoid walking into flood waters. Six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewerage and contain downed power lines or animals.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Use care around downed power lines. Assume a downed wire is a live wire.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OEMHS/hazards/natural/flood.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Subscribe to <a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OEMHS/AlertMontgomery/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alert Montgomery</a> to receive emergency alerts from Montgomery County directly to your mobile devices.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="rideonbusservice2" class="govd_template_image" height="104" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/05/5922616/4903165/rideonbus44_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>There is Still Time to Discover Montgomery County with Ride On This Summer</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Take a stroll through Brookside Gardens.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Attend a world-class performance at Strathmore.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Enjoy the outdoors at the Cabin John Regional Park.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Cool off at a Local Pool</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Explore Arts in Silver Spring.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Tour a Museum</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Experience the excitement of the annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/07/discover-montgomery-county-with-ride-on_25.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="electric bus" class="govd_template_image" height="248" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/11/6677138/4904640/img-0072_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT FEATURED ARTICLE: Solar Canopy Charges Electric Buses in Montgomery County</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Read the article <a href="https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2023/08/Solar-canopy-charges-electric-buses-in-Montgomery-County-Maryland/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="followspeedlimit" class="govd_template_image" height="158" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/06/6046445/4903167/followspeedlimit_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Slow Down and Obey the Speed Limit</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), local roads are more dangerous than highways for speeders. In 2021, there were 12,330 people killed in speeding-related crashes, accounting for 29% of all fatal crashes in the United States. Learn more <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="rockvillemovies-takerideon" class="govd_template_image" height="183" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8033085/4903168/rockvillemovies-takerideon_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Rockville's Movies in the Parks</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Take Ride On this summer to Rockville’s <a href="https://www.rockvillemd.gov/1755/Movies-in-the-Parks" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">free outdoor movies in the parks</a> on the big screen. Enjoy four different movies at four different neighborhood parks in Rockville. Movies begin at dusk (approximately 8 p.m.) and are free. Use the new <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Ride On Trip Planner App</a> to get you there.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 align="left" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT MAINTAINING THE INFRASTRUCTURE</strong></h3><img alt="luxmanortreeremovalaug2023" class="govd_template_image" height="99" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8040948/4905084/treeremoval4_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Removes Fallen Trees at Elementary School in Rockville</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Due to recent storms, MCDOT crews assisted Montgomery County Public Schools by removing trees that were blocking the entrance to Luxmanor Elementary School.</p><img alt="luxmanortreeremoval" class="govd_template_image" height="140" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8032877/4905085/img-3710_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="clarksburgroadwork45" class="govd_template_image" height="142" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8035431/4903171/clarksburg-road-snowden-farm-parkway-improvement-pr_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Installs New Retaining Wall Along Clarksburg Road in Clarksburg</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT contractors continue to work on the Clarksburg Road-Snowden Farm Parkway improvement project which includes roadway widening and vertical curve revision along Clarksburg Road. Visit the project website <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/clarksburgrdsnowdenfarmpkwy/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="mcdot-pedbeacons" class="govd_template_image" height="116" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/08/8032921/4903170/pedbeacons-mcdotinst_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Installs Pedestrian Beacons Throughout the County</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Hybrid Pedestrian Beacons, also known as pedestrian hybrid beacons or high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) beacons, are traffic safety devices that are pedestrian activated and help protect bicyclists and pedestrians by stopping traffic. <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/AutomatedPedBeacon.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Learn more</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CYcxQRd5Qs" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">watch this video</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="sidewalkrepair453" class="govd_template_image" height="148" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2015/07/560923/4905086/sidwalksmconstruction_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Sidewalk, Curb and Gutter Repair/Replacement Project</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Concrete, paving, resurfacing and patching programs are seasonal activities, suspended from November to March/April.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Below is a list of MCDOT projects in progress:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Grosvenor%20Lane%20to%20I-495%20.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Grosvenor Lane to I-495</a>, Bethesda </li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Cherrywood%20Phase%20I.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Cherrywood Phase I</a>, and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Cherrywood%20Phase%20II.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Cherrywood Phase II</a>, Olney</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Connecticut%20Ave%20Park(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Connecticut Ave Park</a>, Wheaton</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View upcoming fall projects <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/concrete/concreteschedule.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><img alt="gutterwork" class="govd_template_image" height="122" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2017/10/1600119/4905087/gutterwork_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="callmc311" class="govd_template_image" height="221" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/03/7324306/4804427/mc311-getitdone_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif") repeat-x; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 538.159px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;"></span>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-89005359388443397942023-08-09T15:29:00.018-04:002023-08-15T10:43:11.817-04:00Stop By MCDOT’s Booth at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair, August 11-19<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGce_eyawYiyxXfCkJYrC8Onqde2o3SH8eNHxW95FzKuKgg5uIAi_aTLN6hI_jCWDcbtBVXsKDqLM8AKobaMv5RMw5IMe-1YHwMiQ4SEcHcKIZX7Z75l_hGkm92TrbeVTJK8Zv3UXvG83zRMJ_IFoDe70imiKI62jeWqEe-iMQUH3XN8OUz7I39H6uRg/s1554/montgomery-county-agriculture-fair-.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1554" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGce_eyawYiyxXfCkJYrC8Onqde2o3SH8eNHxW95FzKuKgg5uIAi_aTLN6hI_jCWDcbtBVXsKDqLM8AKobaMv5RMw5IMe-1YHwMiQ4SEcHcKIZX7Z75l_hGkm92TrbeVTJK8Zv3UXvG83zRMJ_IFoDe70imiKI62jeWqEe-iMQUH3XN8OUz7I39H6uRg/w320-h311/montgomery-county-agriculture-fair-.jpg" width="320" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z1WCWaUOaAcgSfKPOkBUdqz2TG-PPy5K7CCg0dusSOlFP4uwVG9psTv1SI4EfX3zVXI4FLr_L2ntj4vDWnsbF2fBI6X2b3v9ugxqcEFTUPEZTqnnEyQ6JdGfteh49Kppz8NHI_QD-L-ERUNDOmGYByoKQg85DO-RTiIkZ4ElSZlChyVzsHMVgr4ZTgg/s4032/montgomery-county-agriculture-fair-2022_52287323982_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Z1WCWaUOaAcgSfKPOkBUdqz2TG-PPy5K7CCg0dusSOlFP4uwVG9psTv1SI4EfX3zVXI4FLr_L2ntj4vDWnsbF2fBI6X2b3v9ugxqcEFTUPEZTqnnEyQ6JdGfteh49Kppz8NHI_QD-L-ERUNDOmGYByoKQg85DO-RTiIkZ4ElSZlChyVzsHMVgr4ZTgg/s320/montgomery-county-agriculture-fair-2022_52287323982_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: -4.5pt; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt -4.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">MCDOT will
staff a large booth from 10 a.m. to 10
p.m. Staff from bus drivers to pedestrian safety
advocates and highway services emergency response team members will be there with
games and prizes and to distribute helpful information. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: -4.5pt; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt -4.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial;">Follow MCDOT fair activity on <a href="https://twitter.com/Rideonmct" target="_blank"><b>Twitter</b></a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a>. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">The County </span><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: arial;">fair</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> features local and national entertainment, livestock and agricultural exhibits, carnival rides and games, as well as tents from local businesses and organizations. For more details visit <a href="http://mcagfair.com">mcagfair.com</a>.</span></span></p><p></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: -4.5pt; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt -4.5pt;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">To save
time and money, attendees are encouraged to take the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html">Ride
On bus</a> when visiting the fairgrounds on Perry Parkway in Gaithersburg. The
nearest Ride On bus stops and routes are:</span></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Route
</span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route054.html" style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">54</a></span></b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (<b>Rockville-Lakeforest</b>) <br />This route will experience a detour from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. Bus
stops 24844 and 24838.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-bsFzyO3yivwb9P0zx1A04EmTFSFuetWQnRtYZNdL2NoN0FwsgFP0DSCSdIsuUl7Kr6W8YfJinTj2Bk6fN_khe-FpaFcFrU97S9zEpCdXUgosg9VtjpALhNXa56rQ4Imez7INOv2eV6pxCZ58QFdUo3IMWX5bUjdKtAPo5ItL1dTb6wyx50sMyr2APw/s1525/Detour.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1262" data-original-width="1525" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-bsFzyO3yivwb9P0zx1A04EmTFSFuetWQnRtYZNdL2NoN0FwsgFP0DSCSdIsuUl7Kr6W8YfJinTj2Bk6fN_khe-FpaFcFrU97S9zEpCdXUgosg9VtjpALhNXa56rQ4Imez7INOv2eV6pxCZ58QFdUo3IMWX5bUjdKtAPo5ItL1dTb6wyx50sMyr2APw/w400-h331/Detour.png" width="400" /></a></div></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">To Rockville Station:</span><span face="Helvetica, sans-serif"> </span></b></span><span>From
Lakeforest Boulevard, take a right on MD-355, <br /> immediately left on Montgomery
Village Avenue, continue on Quince Orchard Road, left on Clopper Road, continue
on West Diamond Avenue, and back on route. Stops 24842, 24844, 28812,
24846 and 24848 will be bypassed. Use alternate stops 23530 and 21806.</span><br /><br /><b>To Lakeforest Boulevard:</b><span> Bypass Perry Parkway, continue on West Diamond Avenue, Clopper Road, then right on Quince Orchard Boulevard-Montgomery Village Avenue, right on Frederick Road (MD-355), then left on Lakeforest Boulevard, and back on route. Stops 24840, 24838, 24836, 24834 and 24832 will be bypassed. Use alternate stops 23528 and 21824.</span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Route
</span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route055.html" style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">55</a></b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (<b>Rockville-Germantown
Transit Center</b>) <br />Bus stops 22638, 22636, 22514, and 22634.<br /><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Route
</span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route059.html" style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">59</a></b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">: (<b>Rockville-Montgomery
Village</b>) <br />Bus stops 22638, 22636, 22514, and 22634.<br /><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Route
</span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route061.html" style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">61</a></b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b> </b>(<b>Shady Grove-Germantown
Transit Center</b>) <br />Bus stops 24640, 24652, 22516, and 22632.<br /><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Ride
On </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route101.html" style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;">extRa</a></b><span style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b> </b>(<b>Lakeforest Transit
Center-Medical Cente</b>r).</span></span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Download
the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" target="_blank">Ride On Trip Planner App</a> to <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43651&Dept=50" target="_blank">schedule your trip</a>. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrfQepH6JNZ4ikLk34f8nYWhlnYXlanWfugehbSMPvJbEn_LHCRNeA8sPDEl4I2WdLP7wIH_OoJ9PL1W-6DMrd1MRPVeitU6__w34hBO3pwZQ52uW3p0tvxEBAy0ZV_zPkY4CNqgD9lnO8B8nrCQcrWHkSq5sKhChCKrUSGcBWBYdVWTCRsgtAY1YBX4" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1024" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTrfQepH6JNZ4ikLk34f8nYWhlnYXlanWfugehbSMPvJbEn_LHCRNeA8sPDEl4I2WdLP7wIH_OoJ9PL1W-6DMrd1MRPVeitU6__w34hBO3pwZQ52uW3p0tvxEBAy0ZV_zPkY4CNqgD9lnO8B8nrCQcrWHkSq5sKhChCKrUSGcBWBYdVWTCRsgtAY1YBX4=w400-h215" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf90uTmbCmv3EfT6lljkPyOf4XaOtlmjFYChDPomKuXR12LaPBlt9GkzTM9BcAGBLDE9hhcQrYa2MgLhLMGVNzpT3dVxon6DglwZukgT-HqxZYoeGdOB-9K7bjb0LYsCXoszUJzbp-FLRmwUJCyq8fxDInjiLh6Rfvf7N6vsFh2p76UvuKTv5PnljkUvc/s2016/mocofair-rideon-aug2022-4544.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf90uTmbCmv3EfT6lljkPyOf4XaOtlmjFYChDPomKuXR12LaPBlt9GkzTM9BcAGBLDE9hhcQrYa2MgLhLMGVNzpT3dVxon6DglwZukgT-HqxZYoeGdOB-9K7bjb0LYsCXoszUJzbp-FLRmwUJCyq8fxDInjiLh6Rfvf7N6vsFh2p76UvuKTv5PnljkUvc/w640-h480/mocofair-rideon-aug2022-4544.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span><p></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-33515095670415356412023-07-25T11:22:00.004-04:002023-07-25T12:00:59.628-04:00Discover Montgomery County with Ride On This Summer<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDetSFTK-N_S_UgxPXP8c4jiaDCk_TcIkVq8mJlqZWREdBS4_GisYrOU8sPg607CnUGQUzAUUvq1x3wLAvE3Dd1k37aaQXq2AcZqHGievL0aVTJxSnSL6NULLRZ-3tPITBVdw0CVX6fxWaU0IGnVlqHtv2Ra0oE55tg-FjGhcj7ZK3FrrIyl1Gx5LbLE/s3334/MCDOTservices_1200x630-01%20WO%20Masks%20Required.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1750" data-original-width="3334" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDetSFTK-N_S_UgxPXP8c4jiaDCk_TcIkVq8mJlqZWREdBS4_GisYrOU8sPg607CnUGQUzAUUvq1x3wLAvE3Dd1k37aaQXq2AcZqHGievL0aVTJxSnSL6NULLRZ-3tPITBVdw0CVX6fxWaU0IGnVlqHtv2Ra0oE55tg-FjGhcj7ZK3FrrIyl1Gx5LbLE/w640-h336/MCDOTservices_1200x630-01%20WO%20Masks%20Required.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As the temperature rises and the days are longer, it's time to embark on exciting summer adventures in Montgomery County. From picturesque parks to vibrant cultural events, there's something for everyone to enjoy. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Ride On has convenient bus routes that will take you directly to these summer attractions. The following are some of the must-visit destinations and the Ride On routes that will get you there:</span></div><p></p><p style="margin: 9.95pt 0in 13.5pt; text-align: left;"></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Brookside Gardens</b>
-<br />Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at <a href="https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/" target="_blank">Brookside Gardens</a>. With
stunning floral displays, serene walking trails, and a variety of themed
gardens, it's a true oasis. Take Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route049.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 49</b></a> to Glenmont Metro
Station and transfer to Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route010.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 10</b></a> for easy access to this botanical
paradise.</span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Strathmore</b> - <br />Enjoy world-class performances at <a href="https://www.strathmore.org/" target="_blank">Strathmore</a>, a
renowned arts center that hosts a wide range of concerts, exhibitions, and
events. Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route046.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 46</b></a> will take you directly to this cultural hub,
allowing you to indulge in the arts and enrich your summer.</span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Cabin John Regional Park</b> -
<br />Discover the wonders of <a href="https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/cabin-john-regional-park/" target="_blank">Cabin John Regional Park</a>, offering a wide range of
recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and even a
miniature train ride. Take Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route047.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 47</b></a> to access this family-friendly
park and enjoy a day filled with outdoor fun.</span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Cool off at a Local Pool </b>- <br />Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route010.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 10</b></a> will take
you to the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/facilities/aquaticcenters/outdoorpools.html#outdoor" target="_blank">Wheaton/Glenmont outdoor pool</a>, offering a variety of pools and
water features for all ages to enjoy. View a list of all outdoor pool locations <a href="https://visitmontgomery.com/explore/public-pools/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Arts in
Silver Spring</b> -<br />Take the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/flash-orange.html" target="_blank"><b>Flash</b></a> to the<a href="https://silverspringdowntown.com/arts-and-entertainment-district" target="_blank"> Silver Spring Arts District</a> on Colesville Road between Fenton Street and
Georgia Avenue and enjoy the <a href="https://afisilver.afi.com/" target="_blank">AFI Theatre</a>, <a href="https://www.livenation.com/venue/KovZpZA6tFlA/the-fillmore-silver-spring-events" target="_blank">The Filmore music venue</a>, <a href="https://www.roundhousetheatre.org/" target="_blank">Round House Theater</a>, or the <a href="https://www.fandango.com/regal-majestic-and-imax-aaron/theater-page?format=all" target="_blank">Regal Majestic and IMAX</a>.</span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Explore
A Museum</b> - <br />Immerse yourself in art,
history, and culture at Montgomery County's renowned museums. Ride On
<a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/Route301.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 301</b></a> will take you to the <a href="https://www.glenstone.org/" target="_blank">Glenstone Museum</a>, where you can admire
stunning contemporary art exhibits.</span></li></ul><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Montgomery County Agricultural Fair</b>
- <br />Experience the excitement of the annual <a href="https://mcagfair.com/" target="_blank">Montgomery County Agricultural Fair</a> from August 11-19. From thrilling rides to live entertainment and
yummy fair food, it's an event not to be missed. Hop on Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route054.html" target="_blank"><b>Route 54</b></a>,
which will take you directly to the fairgrounds in Gaithersburg.<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Be sure to stop by MCDOT 's tent every day between 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. to meet Ride On bus operators who will be available to answer questions, and distribute route information, maps and giveaways. The pedestrian safety team will also be distributing safety educational materials. <br /></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwn6FSu1y-3PUc2wdc6w2FTuHOo4JgHIS7KpKAci_MlmRdviYWPn5nx5BxfaRP_vwYB_2S55pF1CdtlIBZVoe0XCQYsN4-chCQsEj_0yDZF7Nr-WYiWnspqC4whRwafAsh1Ryrr96qq0VfWGrlg6_Tt0IBr_1y0wue6HY0i0CGSTypR813pnjWEiq8vbM/s1280/FaOjEXQWQAYbS5Crr.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwn6FSu1y-3PUc2wdc6w2FTuHOo4JgHIS7KpKAci_MlmRdviYWPn5nx5BxfaRP_vwYB_2S55pF1CdtlIBZVoe0XCQYsN4-chCQsEj_0yDZF7Nr-WYiWnspqC4whRwafAsh1Ryrr96qq0VfWGrlg6_Tt0IBr_1y0wue6HY0i0CGSTypR813pnjWEiq8vbM/w400-h200/FaOjEXQWQAYbS5Crr.jpg" width="400" /></a></li></ul><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These summer attractions in Montgomery County are easily accessible by Ride On bus routes, allowing you to enjoy the best that the county has to offer without the hassle of driving and parking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Plan your summer activities, hop on a Ride On bus, and make the most of the sunny days ahead. We’re here to connect you to the best the county has to offer. View all bus routes online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white;">For the most up-to-date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on </span><a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Twitter</a><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="background-color: white;">, and </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsfV-Du4y5TlZF8v0Mm4Mmg" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">YouTube.</a><span style="background-color: white;"> In addition, information is available at </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/index.html" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">rideonbus.com</a><span style="background-color: white;">, by </span><a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribing</a><span style="background-color: white;"> to receive email alerts, or by texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span face=""Open Sans", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white;">For more information on MCDOT programs and services, visit </span><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a><span style="background-color: white;">, follow @MCDOTNow on </span><a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Twitter</a><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="background-color: white;">, and </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="background-color: white;"> and </span><a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #355997; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribe</a><span style="background-color: white;"> to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter. To receive the latest MCDOT News in your inbox or phone <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_350" target="_blank">subscribe here</a>. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br style="font-family: arial;" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-44031571110346920162023-07-13T14:50:00.010-04:002023-07-13T15:04:07.236-04:00MCDOT's Transportation Newsletter - Go Montgomery! Newsletter is Now Available for July 2023<p><br /></p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;"></span><div class="bulletin_body" id="bulletin_body" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_tbl_wrap" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td background="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/bulletins/%7B%22image_url%22=%3E%22http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png%22,%20%22image_id%22=%3E184777,%20%22image_name%22=%3E%22noise%20background%22,%20%22repeat%22=%3E%22repeat%22,%20%22str%22=%3E%22background-image:%20url(http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png);background-repeat:%20repeat;%22,%20%22image_height%22=%3E118%7D" bgcolor="#E3F2FF" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #e3f2ff; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184777/noise-lines-blue_original.png") repeat rgb(227, 242, 255); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; width: 700px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">RIDE ON NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="rideontripplannerapp3" class="govd_template_image" height="225" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7897738/4852290/fx8rvrhwwaanckx_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Launches Ride On Trip Planner App</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Wednesday, July 5, <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43651&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MCDOT announced the launch</a> of a new Ride On Trip Planner app, making navigation of the Ride On bus service easier and more convenient. The app was created in partnership with Moovit, a mobility and journey provider app. Riders can download the app from the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.montgomery.rideon&pli=1" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Google Play</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ride-on-trip-planner/id1670305867" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Apple app</a> store and a web-based version is available online <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The new Ride On Trip Planner app allows for trip planning across multiple modes including Ride On buses, Metrorail and Metrobuses, scooters and Bikeshare. Additionally, the app will give live reports on Ride On bus wait times and ridership levels by utilizing a crowdsourcing information feature.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="courtesystop44" class="govd_template_image" height="253" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901463/4852291/courtesystop5_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT’s ‘Courtesy Stop’ Program Allows Late Night Bus Riders to Request Drop-Offs Between Stops for Safety</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">As of Sunday, July 2, Montgomery County Ride On bus riders can request to be dropped off between stops when traveling late at night. Ride On buses are offering the “Courtesy Stop” program to allow bus riders more options to get to their destination safely and easily when traveling after dark. Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrobuses <a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/bus/Courtesy-Stops-for-Metrobus.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">started the program</a> on Sunday, June 25.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Available after 9 p.m., the Courtesy Stop program will let riders request to be dropped off at any point along the regular bus route, in addition to designated bus stops. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43620&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT ANNOUNCEMENTS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="commuterconnectionsaward2023" class="govd_template_image" height="278" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7897728/4852292/commconnectionsaward2023-june_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Wins Regional ‘Commuter Connections’ Award</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT’s<a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43694&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"> Commuter Services Section was recognized by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ (COG) Commuter Connections Network</a> with a 2023 Employer Services Sales Team Achievement Award for its outstanding work in creating and promoting commuter alternative programs.</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The <strong>MCDOT Commuter Services Section</strong> works with employers in the County to encourage commuter programs that are focused on reducing single-occupancy drivers and offering alternatives. While businesses are responsible for implementing the programs, MCDOT helps in program design, promotion and employee participation.<br /><br /></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Abt Associates</strong>, located in Rockville, is one of the employers which Commuter Services works with who won the Telework Award in recognition of their extensive remote work system, which led to a reduction of 1,720,330 vehicle miles of travel (VMT) and an annual savings of more than 78,000 gallons of gasoline.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="md355award" class="govd_template_image" height="239" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901541/4852293/award355mdcrossmcdot_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Wins National Recognition Award for Engineering Excellence for 355 Crossing Project in Bethesda</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT and Alpha Corporation have <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43578&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">won a National Recognition Award</a> from the American Council of Engineering Companies for their work on the MD 355 Crossing Project completed in February 2022.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The project, which took roughly five years to complete, was engineered and built to enhance pedestrian/bicyclist safety between the west and east sides of Rockville Pike (MD 355) in Bethesda. It increased the capacity of and improved access to the Medical Center Metrorail Station and the parallel kiss-and-ride served by Ride On, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Pre-COVID-19 numbers indicate that Medical Center Metro Station accommodated around 11,000 Metro riders daily. More than 7,000 pedestrians cross MD 355 to get to the Metro stop, Ride On and the shared-use path on the west side.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="ridepridebus" class="govd_template_image" height="189" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902335/4852294/pride45454555_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 226px;" width="226" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Did You See MCDOT’s </strong><strong>‘Ride with Pride' Bus Last Month?</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT unveiled the “Ride with Pride” themed Ride On bus to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its allies during June, which is recognized as Pride Month. Wrapped with the Intersex Progress Pride Flag, adorned with “Ride with Pride” messaging and neon lights to stand out at night, the Ride On bus was dedicated to the uplifting of LGBTQ+ voices, culture and civil rights.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In addition to the Pride Bus, each MCDOT Ride On bus had internal #RidewithPride poster displays with a <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/RideWithPride.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">QR code directing riders to a web page</a> with information about the historical and cultural significance of Pride Month.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="ab781" class="govd_template_image" height="253" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904409/frederick-road-public-hearing-ab-781_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Virtual Public Hearing on the Proposed Abandonment (AB 781) of a Public Right of Way Along Frederick Road (MD 355) in Clarksburg to be Held on Thursday, July 13</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Starting at 2 p.m., MCDOT will hold a virtual public hearing on the proposed abandonment of a portion of public right of way along Frederick Road in Clarksburg.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The property was previously acquired from the Potomac Edison Company in connection with the Frederick Road Bike Path project (CIP # 501118). However, the bike path's design was modified, resulting in a realignment of the bike path and drainage facilities across from the Potomac Edison property. The public has until Monday, July 28 5 p.m. to provide comments. Comments will become a matter of public record. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43618&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT IN THE NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="ftavideo" class="govd_template_image" height="216" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902239/ftavideorideon_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 224px;" width="224" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County is Featured in FTA’s New “Investing in the Future of Transit Buses” Video</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In this video, FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez highlights how Montgomery County in Maryland, with FTA support, is transitioning to a clean and green bus program powered by the sun.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT has received more than $20 million in grants from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez visited the Ride On Brookeville, Silver Spring Depot to feature our Zero-emission buses and Smart Energy Microgrid bus charging infrastructure in an informational video. The video highlights how, with the support of the FTA, we are transitioning to a clean and green bus program powered by solar microgrid technologies. MCDOT has 14 Ride On electric buses in service with 60 more on the way.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Zero-emission bus grants include millions of dollars in funding for workforce programs. The grants are part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda, which is rebuilding our nation's infrastructure from the bottom up and middle out with good paying jobs that grow the American economy by creating a manufacturing and innovation boom. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Watch the video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMGtz-vJsZc" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="ftavideo" class="govd_template_image" height="123" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902239/4852295/ftavideorideon_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 128px;" width="128" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Back on the Bus: Montgomery County Sees Bump in Ride On Numbers</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">According to MCDOT Director Chris Conklin, ridership is at 80% of pre-pandemic levels, with Ride On service carrying 55,000 people per day. Read the WTOP article <a href="https://wtop.com/montgomery-county/2023/07/back-on-the-bus-montgomery-county-sees-bump-in-ride-on-numbers/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="extraro" class="govd_template_image" height="140" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902420/4852296/rideonextra666_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 128px;" width="128" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Poop-Powered Ride On Buses Coming by the End of 2024</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">WSSC Water signs a five-year contract with county to provide renewable natural gas for vehicles. Read the MoCo360 article <a href="https://moco360.media/2023/06/26/poop-powered-ride-on-buses-coming-by-the-end-of-2024/?utm_source=MoCo360&utm_campaign=147207a40e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_062823&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-01d2cd1fa5-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=147207a40e&mc_eid=62dd1cde01" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">DGS has signed a contract for Equipment Maintenance & Transit Operation Center’s Smart Energy Depot as the design continues. This microgrid project will provide resilient electrical power to the transit fleet which will be comprised of both electrical battery buses and hydrogen fuel cell buses.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">See what else MCDOT and other departments are doing by viewing the Montgomery County Climate Action Plan Progress Report <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/climate/Resources/Files/climate/climate-action-plan-progress-report-fy2023-q3.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_image"><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 3px 0px 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="128"><img alt="fooddrive55" class="govd_template_image" height="162" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902400/4852297/rofooddrivema_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 128px;" width="128" /></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Food Drive Donations Surpass Last Year’s Tally</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Last month’s Ride On Food Drive collected 2,309 pounds of non-perishable food, which is 12% more than last year. Read the MYMCMEDIA article <a href="https://www.mymcmedia.org/ride-on-food-drive-donations-surpass-last-years-tally" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">PARKING NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="bethesdagarageart" class="govd_template_image" height="275" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903759/4852298/two-public-art-installations-on-montgomery-county-o_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 221px;" width="221" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Two Public Art Installations on MCDOT-operated Public Parking Garage Unveiled in Downtown Bethesda</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT and Federal Realty Investment Trust <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43575&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">unveiled two new public art installations</a> on a County-operated public parking garage in downtown Bethesda on Thursday, June 22.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT worked with Federal Realty, which commissioned the large murals by artist Andrea Cobb of Durham, N.C. They are located at the entrances of MCDOT’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html#collapseNine" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Public Garage 57</a> on Elm Street and Bethesda Avenue in Bethesda Row.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT has a history of making parking facilities available for works of art. A mural was painted on the side of the County Parking Garage at 7661 <a href="https://www.bethesda.org/arts-and-entertainment/old-georgetown-road-parking-garage-mural" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Old Georgetown Road</a> last year. The 8216 <a href="https://www.bethesda.org/arts-and-entertainment/woodmont-ave-garage" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Woodmont Garage</a> was painted in 2020. Both were commissioned through the “Paint the Town” program, a partnership with the Bethesda Urban Partnership.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="newparkinghours2023" class="govd_template_image" height="307" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777404/newparkingchangessm_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>New Saturday Parking Hours for County-Operated Garages, Parking Lots and Meters in Downtown Bethesda and Silver Spring Started on Saturday, July 8</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Saturday hours and rates will be the same as the existing weekday schedules. Sundays will remain free. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Parking revenue will be used to implement new safety and security measures in public parking facilities. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43519&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="ridersonrideonbus" class="govd_template_image" height="159" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/05/7607039/4852299/ridersonbus_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Attention Residents 50+, Get Comfortable with Traveling on Public Transit with a Free Travel Training Workshop on Wednesday, August 9</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Ride Smart Travel Training is a <em>free </em>half-day workshop from <a href="https://accessjca.org/connect-a-ride/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">JCA Connect-A-Ride</a> program designed to help Montgomery County residents aged 50+ gain confidence taking Metrorail and other public transportation. Participants learn how to read the Metro map, understand digital schedule signs, load a fare card, and quickly find a station’s emergency and accessibility features. Travel Training includes classroom training; a trip on a Ride On bus; a visit to a Metro station; and a roundtrip train ride. <br /><br />The class will be held at the <a href="https://www.rockvillemd.gov/736/Senior-Center" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Rockville Senior Center</a> located at 1150 Carnation Drive. Advance registration is required. No Walk-ins are allowed. Call 301-738-3252 or email <a href="mailto:connectaride@accessjca.org" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">connectaride@accessjca.org</a> to learn more and register. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">THIS WEEKEND:</h3><img alt="touchatruck" class="govd_template_image" height="208" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902051/4852509/touch-a-truck-mcdotmontmall_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 395px;" width="395" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Participates in </strong><strong>Touch a Truck Day at Westfield Montgomery Mall</strong><strong> in Bethesda on </strong><strong>Saturday, July 15</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The <a href="https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/touch-truck-event-vehicles-fun-coming-westfield-montgomery" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">community event</a> will have a large variety of vehicles including Ride On buses, Police cars and a Fire truck for kids to tour, along with a Live DJ, face painters, and a magic show. Select mall shops will be joining with activities, giveaways, games, samples and coupons.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Between 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. stop by the mall’s food court parking lot (7101 Democracy Blvd.) to tour Ride On buses that will be parked near the Cheesecake Factory and meet Ride On staff that will have a table full of giveaways and information on all bus services, including the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Ride On Trip Planner app</a>, <a href="https://www.wmata.com/fares/Reduced-Fare-Programs/MetroLift/index.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Lift program</a> and Ride On’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/courtesy-stops.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Courtesy Bus Stop program</a>. Follow the action at <a href="https://twitter.com/Rideonmct" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">twitter.com/Rideonmct</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="tag" class="govd_template_image" height="185" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/03/4214668/4852301/tag_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On Transit Advisory Group (TAG) is Recruiting Riders With Disabilities, Bilingual Adults and High School Students</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Ride On is seeking applications from high school students, riders with disabilities and bilingual adults who wish to be <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Files/TransitAdvisoryGroup.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">selected as a TAG member</a>. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">TAG members receive monthly updates on Ride On events and news and meet with Ride On management staff three times a year so they can voice their opinions and give feedback on Ride On bus services. Students can earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Interested individuals are asked to send an email to <a href="mailto:rideon.customerservice@montgomerycountymd.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">rideon.customerservice@montgomerycountymd.gov</a> with their name, telephone number, city, category (i.e. disabled, high school student, or bilingual speaker) and the reason they would like to join.<a href="mailto:rideon.customerservice@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"></a></p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="mcdotbikescooterclasses" class="govd_template_image" height="457" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/11/6736131/4852302/bikescootermcdotclass_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 223px;" width="223" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>It’s a Wrap – MCDOT’s Adult Bike and Scooter Spring Classes Were a Success</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT sponsored six adult bike classes and most sessions were sold out with 156 registrants. Most attendees were able to ride a bike by the end of the class. The classes offered residents an affordable way to include biking as another form of transportation.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Last month, MCDOT hosted the last of four e-scooter safety classes. Over 75 residents learned how to download the vendor apps to rent and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-Oo1fT2LTw" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">operate an e-scooter</a> and were able to take a test ride. They also learned about local e-scooter laws and general safety information. MCDOT has contracts with <a href="https://go.bird.co/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Bird</a>, <a href="https://www.li.me/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Lime</a>, and <a href="https://www.spin.app/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Spin</a> who operate within certain areas in Montgomery County and participated in one or more of the four training classes.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Additional bike and e-scooter safety classes will be offered later this year. Check the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/bikewalk/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">website</a> or follow <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">@MCDOTNow</a> on social media for updates.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">METRO & PARTNER NEWS</h1><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Ride With Metro to the MLS All-Star Game, Limited Edition MLS All-Star SmarTrip Cards Now Available</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Metro is inviting fans from around the world to ride Metro to see the Major League Soccer All-Star Game. To commemorate the occasion, Metro is releasing a limited-edition MLS All-Star SmarTrip® card, ahead of the big game. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Ride-with-Metro-to-the-MLS-All-Star-Game-MLS-All-Star-SmarTrip-Cards-available.cfm" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Parking at Metro is Easier Than Ever with Pay Stations and Mobile Payment Options</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">No more searching for spare change to pay at Metro parking meters. New centralized pay stations and ParkMobile® are now available at all of Metro’s Kiss & Ride and hourly lots and on-street parking spaces. On weekends, all Metro-owned parking facilities are free and with a $2 weekend flat fare for any one-way trip. Customers can also check to see if a garage is full, using real-time parking availability by visiting <a href="https://wmata.com/service/parking/index.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">wmata.com/parking</a>. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Parking-at-Metro-is-easier-than-ever-with-pay-stations-and-mobile-payment-options.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>EV Owners Can Apply for High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Permit</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Drivers of plug-in electric vehicles or qualified hybrid vehicles, titled and registered in Maryland, will be allowed to use the HOV lanes in Maryland (I270 and US50) regardless of the number of passengers, providing they obtain and display an HOV permit on the vehicle. The permit is valid through September 30, 2025. Apply on the <a href="https://mymva.maryland.gov/TAP/IND/_/#1" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MVA website</a> or visit an <a href="https://mva.maryland.gov/locations/Pages/mvabranchesandveiplocations.aspx#MontgomeryCounty" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">MVA branch office</a>. View qualifications and apply online <a href="https://mva.maryland.gov/about-mva/Pages/info/27300/27300-54T.aspx" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MD: Dan Rodricks: Challenging Drivers to Challenge Their Assumptions and Take a Bus Once in a While</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Being a bus rider means, at least part of the time, being a pedestrian. But — and there’s almost always a “but” — while taking a bus is much safer than driving a car, the pedestrian part has become increasingly dangerous. Read the Mass Transit article <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/bus/news/53064329/md-dan-rodricks-challenging-drivers-to-challenge-their-assumptions-and-take-a-bus-once-in-a-while" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>D.C. to Begin Sending Targeted Messages to High-Risk Drivers</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The District government plans to launch a personalized messaging program next month that will send mailers and text messages to Washington-area motorists with a history of traffic violations and crashes.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The initiative, led by the D.C. Department of Transportation and The Lab @ D.C., will message drivers whom the city deems more likely to be involved in a crash, warning them to follow speed limits and pay attention to traffic signs. Learn more <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/06/23/dc-begin-sending-targeted-messages-high-risk-drivers/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>After Crash That Killed Three, D.C. Bill Targets Dangerous Drivers</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">A proposal before the D.C. Council aims to give more enforcement power to city agencies to target repeat offenders, including drivers who accumulate fines for speeding and reckless driving. Learn more <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2023/07/10/dc-driving-safety-enforcement/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">IN THE NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Documents/2022_PDF_Files/CDAT/Cannabis%20and%20Driving%20Don%27t%20Mix.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img align="right" alt="cannabisfactsheet" class="govd_template_image" height="205" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903825/4852303/cannabisanddrivingfactsheet_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 178px;" width="178" /></a><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Driving High Can Lead to a DUI</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Have you seen cannabis ads on Ride On buses? On Saturday, July 1, Maryland legalized the recreational adult-use of cannabis in Maryland. Adults 21+ may legally purchase and possess cannabis. Learn more at <a href="https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">cannabis.maryland.gov</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Driving under the influence of cannabis is not only illegal, it’s dangerous. Don’t risk your life or the lives of others on the road.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Using cannabis while driving (by a driver or passenger) and impaired driving remains illegal under Maryland law. Law enforcement officers can make a cannabis DUI arrest if they observe impairment using a standard field sobriety testing (roadside test) method. Let's keep Maryland safe and plan ahead before using cannabis. For more information, view this <a href="https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Documents/2022_PDF_Files/CDAT/Cannabis%20and%20Driving%20Don%27t%20Mix.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Cannabis and Driving Don't Mix fact sheet</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="article6977" class="govd_template_image" height="204" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903845/screen-shot-2023-07-01-at-9-56-20-am-300x300_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 179px;" width="179" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Bikes Help Reduce the Cost of Living</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Increasing access to low-cost modes of transportation like bikes—and safe places to ride them—effectively reduces this often-overlooked household expense and ensures communities remain affordable for everyone. Learn more <a href="https://fabb-bikes.org/bikes-help-reduce-the-cost-of-living/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="nhtsaarticle55" class="govd_template_image" height="168" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903883/4852304/wreck77_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 180px;" width="180" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>NHTSA Estimates Traffic Fatalities Dropped in the First Three Months of 2023</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released its first projections for traffic fatalities in 2023, estimating that 9,330 people died in traffic crashes in the first three months of the year. This represents a decrease of about 3.3% as compared to 9,645 estimated fatalities during the same time in 2022. The first quarter of 2023 represents the fourth straight quarterly decline in fatalities after seven consecutive quarters of year-to-year increases in fatalities, beginning with the third quarter of 2020. Read the press release <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/nhtsa-traffic-fatalities-estimates-first-quarter-2023" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="walkneigharticle55" class="govd_template_image" height="183" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903904/4852305/articlewalkneigh_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 181px;" width="181" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>The Walkable Neighborhoods Americans Want May be Closer Than We Think</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">An increasing number of Americans would happily pay a premium to live within an easy walk or bike ride to the places they go most — and with a few tweaks, that dream could be an affordable reality for far more of them than policymakers realize, a pair of new studies suggest. Read the Streetsblog article <a href="https://usa.streetsblog.org/2023/07/06/the-walkable-neighborhoods-americans-want-may-be-closer-than-we-think" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="dcmap" class="govd_template_image" height="181" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903909/4852306/articlewalkneigh_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 181px;" width="181" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>This Mega-Map Shows How MARC's Extension to Newark Links Us to a Much Broader Region</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MARC is finally proposing extending weekday service to Newark, Delaware, giving commuters and other travelers a chance to transfer between SEPTA and MARC for the first time ever and opening up through travel in a way that has never been possible before. Read the Greater Greater Washington article <a href="https://ggwash.org/view/90146/this-mega-map-shows-how-marcs-extension-to-newark-links-us-to-a-much-broader-region" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 358.187px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomofooter" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/10/2889009/2899353/mcdotfooter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 398px;" width="398" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For more information on MCDOT projects and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news to your mobile phone or email inbox. </p></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">JULY 2023</h3><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/social-media.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="mcdotonsocial" class="govd_template_image" height="143" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/05/5866710/4852307/mcdotsocial2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Follow @MCDOTNow on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/MCDOTNow/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/calendar.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="july2023calendar" class="govd_template_image" height="149" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901439/4852308/julycalendar_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Click the above calendar image to see what MCDOT is up to in July.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="nationalicecreamday" class="govd_template_image" height="127" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904734/4852510/icecreamdayjuly16_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Celebrate National Ice Cream Day, Sunday, July 16</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Take the Ride On bus to get your scoop! Find a route near you <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="wearehiring" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5808003/4852309/nowhiring5_crop.gif" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Join Our Team!</strong></h3><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Program Administration and Program Specialist II (IRC<em>57680</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Capital Projects Manager (IRC<em>57387</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Senior Engineer (IRC<em>58960</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Program Manager I - Public Relations (IRC<em>58958</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Engineer III/II/I - Fiber - Telecom (IRC<em>57554</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Traffic Management Technician I/II (IRC<em>58003</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Transportation Systems Technician I/II/III -Installation, Maintenance and Repair (IRC<em>58678</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Leadership Services Manager III - Transportation Management Section (IRC<em>57630</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Senior Planning Specialist (IRC<em>58781</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Transportation Systems Technician I (IRC<em>58559</em>)</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For details on the above job postings search the IRC number on Montgomery County's Career website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="mcdothiringeventjuly8" class="govd_template_image" height="247" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904026/4852310/microsoftteams-image-2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Participates in Hiring Event at Montgomery College’s Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus for Ethiopian Community</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Saturday, July 8, MCDOT had a table with information on job openings and Michael Paylor, MCDOT's Traffic Engineering and Operation's Division Chief had a chance to speak about the department services and it's different divisions and what they do.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County offers many benefits which include paid Commercial Driver's License training and more.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Scan the QR Code below to learn more.</p><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="hiringqrcode" class="govd_template_image" height="174" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902727/4854054/qrcodesjobs_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 189px;" width="189" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">ROAD & SAFETY NEWS</h2><img alt="mcdotstreetsweeping" class="govd_template_image" height="100" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/04/5749565/4852312/streetsweepingbegins_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Completes Street Sweeping</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT’s annual <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/streetsweep/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Street Sweeping Program</a> began on Monday, April 10 sweeping over 4,100 lane miles of residential roadways and intersections in Montgomery County. Sweeping routes were prioritized based on their proximity to sensitive watershed areas that are identified by the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection. This effort promotes the health of our local watersheds and the Chesapeake Bay.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For questions regarding street sweeping please contact MC311 by calling 311 within the County or 240-777-0311.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="SStrafficsignal" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902123/4852313/ssbriggsandrobey-road-in-ss-new-signal4_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Installs New Traffic Signal in Silver Spring</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The new traffic signal is at the intersection of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Robey+Rd+%26+Briggs+Chaney+Rd,+Fairland,+MD+20904/@39.079491,-76.9453101,394m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c4cb3e1752d9:0x200a5442dc3ddbc6!8m2!3d39.0794238!4d-76.9452966!16s%2Fg%2F11gf4t9xh2?entry=ttu" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Briggs Chaney Road and Robey Road</a>. The signal was put on a 72 Hour Flash on Tuesday, July 11 to provide motorists advance notification and will be activated on full color operation on Friday, July 14.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="afterjeffersonstreet" class="govd_template_image" height="119" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903670/4852314/ejeffersonafter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><img alt="beforeEastJefferson" class="govd_template_image" height="130" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903668/4852316/beforeejefferson_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Completes East Jefferson Street Road Resurfacing Project in Rockville</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View the project newsletter <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/E_%20Jefferson%20Street.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="democracy-fernwoodproject" class="govd_template_image" height="142" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7908347/4854073/democracy-fernwood-intersection-traffic-signal-reco_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Fernwood+Rd+%26+Democracy+Blvd,+North+Bethesda,+MD+20817/@39.0218831,-77.1347763,480m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cc77a5aaa1bd:0x4bf206341df1a50c!8m2!3d39.0219426!4d-77.1350065!16s%2Fg%2F11gf209y4c?entry=ttu" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Democracy Boulevard and Fernwood Road</a> Intersection Traffic Signal Reconstruction Project in Bethesda</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT will reconstruct the existing traffic signal to include new mast arms, new LED vehicular signals with backplates, accessible pedestrian signals and countdown pedestrian signals (APS/CPS) and Americans with Disabilities Act- (ADA) compliant pedestrian sidewalk ramps.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">As part of the traffic signal reconstruction, the project also includes widening along Fernwood Road to provide an additional left-turn lane in the northbound direction. Other geometric changes planned as part of this project that are anticipated to enhance pedestrian safety at the intersection, include the removal of free-right turns in the northbound, southbound, and eastbound directions. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Additionally, the westbound free-right turn will be modified using a mountable curb to reduce pedestrian crossing distances and slow vehicular speeds. MCDOT anticipates the start of construction in August and project completion in spring 2024. For questions contact Kamal Hamud at <a aria-label="Link trafficops@montgomerycountymd.gov" href="mailto:trafficops@montgomerycountymd.gov?subject=Democracy%20Blvd%20%40%20Fernwood%20Rd" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank" title="mailto:trafficops@montgomerycountymd.gov?subject=democracy%20blvd%20%40%20fernwood%20rd">trafficops@<br />montgomerycountymd.gov</a> or 240-777-2190.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="visionzerocover" class="govd_template_image" height="180" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901330/4852318/va2020-actionplan-v2-cover_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>View MCDOT Safety Projects Underway in Your Neighborhood</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Use <a href="https://mcgov-gis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/SimpleViewer/index.html?appid=33cbbf17bbba4ab8b0ee63ac01c90fcd" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Vision Zero’s interactive project map</a> to see completed or scheduled safety projects related to the Vision Zero <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">initiative</a>. See what safety projects MCDOT has done at intersections that include the installation of <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Files/PedSafety/MCDOTHAWKFlyersm.pdf" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">HAWK</a>, Rectangular Rapid Flashing and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/AutomatedPedBeacon.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Pedestrian Hybrid</a> beacons, traffic calming and signal work.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="AARprogram2023" class="govd_template_image" height="185" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7902158/4852320/f0r8fy6xsaeqjka_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Adopt A Road Program Receives 100 New Participants </strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Thank You to everyone who signed up to help keep Montgomery County roads litter free! If you're interested in volunteering, learn more <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/AdoptARoad.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="abuelina" class="govd_template_image" height="73" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904267/4852322/abuelina-slider-spanish-063023_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Welcomes Abuelina to Vision Zero / Pedestrian Safety </h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">After her <a href="https://www.lhiinfo.org/saludybienestar/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">successful campaign to keep our community safe from COVID-19</a>, Abuelina and her family are joining MCDOT's pedestrian safety team! Under the theme, "Lessons from Abuelina" her first campaign is to talk to the community about safely walking, biking, and driving through MCDOT's newly installed Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) around the county. The initial wave this month includes pop-up events at PHBs and <a href="https://twitter.com/VisionZeroMC" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">social media posts</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more about this bilingual campaign <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/CruzarConSeguridad.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="infrastarticle" class="govd_template_image" height="119" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7903958/4852324/infrastructure700px_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Protect Yourself and Loved Ones by Addressing Roadway Risks</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The National Safety Council (NSC) <a href="https://www.nsc.org/newsroom/motor-vehicle-deaths-reach-estimated-46,000" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">estimates more than 46,000</a> people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2022. That is an increase of nearly 22% from 2019. Our roadways are more dangerous than they've been in 17 years and continue to pose some of the biggest risks we face each day, whether we are driving, riding or simply walking across the street.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">NSC offers these <a href="https://www.nsc.org/road/protect-yourself-and-loved-ones-by-addressing-road" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">tips for safer travels</a>:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Prepare before you go.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Drive distraction-free.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Slow down.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Designate a sober driver or arrange alternate transportation.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Avoid fatigued driving.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Buckle up.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Protect vulnerable passengers.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Look before you lock.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Understand your vehicle’s on-board safety systems.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Take an alternate path.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Watch for all road users.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT IS GETTING AROUND</h2><img alt="fourthofjulyparade" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904115/4852326/parade4thjuly_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">Ride On Participates in Fourth of July Parade</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Did you see MCDOT's electric Ride On bus at the Takoma Park Fourth of July parade?</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><i>Photograph by Darrell J. Smith.</i></span></p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="pedsafetyatgiant" class="govd_template_image" height="120" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7904118/4852328/giantfood_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT Pedestrian Safety Outreach at Giant Food in Rockville on Monday, July 17</h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Between 4-8 p.m., MCDOT’s Pedestrian Safety team will have a table set up outside the Giant Food grocery store located at 9710 Traville Gateway Drive to <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/Resources.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">promote pedestrian and bike safety</a> to shoppers.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Stop by for a chance to win giveaways and receive safety materials. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="customerappreciationday" class="govd_template_image" height="139" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/07/2693706/4852330/custapprecday-rockvillemetrooct30_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Ride On to Host Customer Appreciation Day at the Glenmont Metro Station on Tuesday, July 25</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Ride On staff will be greeting riders between 4:30-6:30 p.m. to thank them and collect feedback on MCDOT's bus service. Tee shirts and other items will be distributed. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">LOCAL HAPPENINGS</h2><img alt="tgifconcerts" class="govd_template_image" height="97" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901982/4852332/tgifconcerts_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 class="xmsonormal" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Looking for Something to do on Friday Evenings?</strong></h3><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Use the new Ride On Trip Planner App to get to the FREE <a href="https://www.wheatonmd.org/do/wheaton-tgif-summer-concerts-powered-by-chuck-levins-music-center" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">TGIF Summer Concert Series</a> in Wheaton at <a href="https://www.wheatonmd.org/art/town-square-building-and-plaza" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Marian Fryer Town Plaza</a> (2424 Reedie Drive) every Friday at 5 p.m. for live music, cocktails and artist demonstrations. Ride On bus fare is only $1. Download the app at <a href="https://tinyurl.com/yv9yzs8c" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">tinyurl.com/yv9yzs8c</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="seniorconnectionlogo" class="govd_template_image" height="174" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7901951/4852334/seniorconnection4_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 185px;" width="185" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Senior Connection Provides Transportation for Residents Aged 60+</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County residents aged 60+ can receive rides and assistance getting groceries through Senior Connection, a local non-profit that provides an array of free services to Montgomery County residents aged 60+. For more information, call 301-962-0820, visit <a href="https://www.seniorconnectionmc.org/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">seniorconnectionmc.org</a> or email <a href="mailto:susan.girard@seniorconnectionmc.org" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">susan.girard@<br />seniorconnectionmc.org</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="callmc311" class="govd_template_image" height="219" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/03/7324306/4854074/mc311-getitdone_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 170.093px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; background: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif") repeat-x; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 539.062px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></div>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-30708203166649872902023-07-10T20:02:00.002-04:002023-07-25T11:05:30.725-04:00Spotlight Interviews with Ride On Employees Donna Mitchell and Vance Young <p><br /></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><img alt="Donna Mitchell" border="0" height="230" id="_x0000_i1025" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7872694/4841293/donna_crop.jpeg" style="height: 2.399in; width: 1.899in;" width="182" /><o:p></o:p></p>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; padding: 0in; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 6pt;" valign="top" width="8"></td>
<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; padding: 0in; text-size-adjust: 100%;" valign="top">
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is your
name?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">
Donna Mitchell<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">How long have you
been working with Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> 3 years 3 months<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is your role
here at Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> Office Service Coordinator – I run the entire office
and am responsible for giving operators their uniforms and handling all the
aspects regarding the financial duties that are entailed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What are some
things you like about working with Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> I love being
here because this is a smaller depot, we are family-oriented, and there are
great benefits. When I first came on board, I was a contractor so the
atmosphere as far as being just a number is different because now, I feel
like I’m a part of a family. I love being here!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is a positive
message you would like to share with everyone?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> Montgomery
County, and not just for Ride On, offers an opportunity for the potential for
growth. We have a program called the PACE where you can spend 6 months to a
year working in another position to learn a new trade to add to your resume
to help you grow within the organization.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 100%;">
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<p class="MsoNormal"><img alt="Vance Young" border="0" height="265" id="_x0000_i1027" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/07/7872697/4841294/vance-young_crop.jpeg" style="height: 2.756in; width: 1.899in;" width="182" /><o:p></o:p></p>
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<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; padding: 0in; text-size-adjust: 100%; width: 6pt;" valign="top" width="8"></td>
<td style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; padding: 0in; text-size-adjust: 100%;" valign="top">
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is your
name?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">
Vance Young<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">How long have you
been working with Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> 8 and a half years<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is your role
here at Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> Bus Operator<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is a
positive message you would like to share with everyone?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> Leave your cars
at home and come and Ride On with us!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;">What is the most
important aspect of working with Ride On?</span></strong><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> Safety. We love
what we do and we love taking people where they need to go.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span face=""Helvetica",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
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</tbody></table>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-44777547683407028282023-06-15T16:55:00.001-04:002023-06-20T11:20:28.839-04:00MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter - JUNE 2023<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="gd_ab_main_tab" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 20px auto; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Masthead" id="gd_ab_header" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="http://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomobanner" class="govd_template_image" height="141" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/08/2748611/go-montgomery-header-2019-1_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 600px;" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="gd_ab_collapse" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 600px;"><tbody><tr><td bgcolor="#FFFFFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Main column" id="gd_ab_main_col" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 410px;" valign="top" width="410"><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">RIDE ON NEWS & UPDATES</h1><img alt="mcdotpridebus" class="govd_template_image" height="298" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776393/4804388/pride-bus-photos-from-germantown3_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /><h3 class="paragraph" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span class="normaltextrun">MCDOT Unveils ‘Ride with Pride Bus’ to Celebrate June as Pride Month</span></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Wrapped with the Intersex Progress Pride Flag, adorned with Ride with Pride messaging and neon lights to stand out at night, the bus is dedicated to the uplifting of LGBTQ+ voices, culture and civil rights.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">In addition to the Pride Bus, all MCDOT buses will have #RidewithPride poster displays on board in June, with a QR code that will direct to the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/RideWithPride.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">MCDOT Ride with Pride webpage</a> with information about the historical and cultural significance of the LGBTQ+ community.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and county officials <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/montgomerycountymd/albums/72177720308752242" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">rode the bus on June 1</a> on its inaugural journey to a <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43462" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">ceremony to raise the Progress Pride Flag</a> outside of the Executive Office Building in Rockville. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Click on the below image to watch MCDOT's Pride Bus wrap time lapse video.</p><a href="https://youtu.be/pf1sx4lTvPM?" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="pridebustimevideo" class="govd_template_image" height="220" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7774783/ride-with-pride-video_original.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="RideOntripplannerapp" class="govd_template_image" height="225" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776562/4804390/picture4_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Seeks Feedback on Trip Planner App Throughout June</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Monday, June 5, MCDOT announced the soft launch of a new <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/trip-planner/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On Trip Planner app</a>. The app was launched in partnership with <a href="https://moovitapp.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Moovit</a>, a global mobility trip-planning mobile app software company. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The new Ride On Trip Planner app has many features including trip planning across multiple modes including Ride On buses, Metro rail and buses, scooters and Bikeshare. Additionally, the app will have crowdsourcing information for Ride On buses to give live reports on arrival times and ridership levels to alert riders if an incoming bus is at, or near, capacity. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT is seeking user feedback. Riders are encouraged to download the app from either <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.montgomery.rideon&pli=1" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Google Play</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ride-on-trip-planner/id1670305867" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Apple app</a> store, try it out and share their experience by: </p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Emailing <a href="mailto:RideOn.TripPlanner@montgomerycountymd.gov" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">TripPlanner@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>,</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Contacting MC311, by calling 311 or 240-777-0311.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Posting on social media @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The feedback will be used to optimize the application for its official release on Wednesday, July 5. </p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="fooddrivethankyou" class="govd_template_image" height="215" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/06/5991782/4804398/fooddrivethank-yousm_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 396px;" width="396" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT’s Annual Ride On Food Drive Collects 2,390 Pounds of Non-Perishable Food; 12% Over Last Year</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT and <a href="https://www.mannafood.org/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Manna Food Center</a> are thankful to residents for helping Montgomery County fight hunger by donating non-perishable food during <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43336&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Ride On’s Food Drive</a>, held during the week of May 21. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents were asked to donate non-perishable food items on all Ride On, extRa, Flex and Flash buses in exchange for free fare. Food collected during the drive will be distributed locally by Manna Food.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents can still drop off non-perishable food donations at the Manna Food Center warehouse located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Manna+Food+Center/@39.1180909,-77.1924187,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7d2ad7b4594c7:0x8e035f218fcc870e!8m2!3d39.1183448!4d-77.1920003!16s%2Fg%2F1thn6dl0" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">9311 Gaither Road</a>, Gaithersburg (phone 301-424-1130) or the administrative office located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Manna+Food+Center+Market/@39.0576763,-76.9694587,15.26z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7c502e0038e87:0x3023c55add399115!8m2!3d39.057783!4d-76.9696489!16s%2Fg%2F11h_zjxz7h" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">12301 Old Columbia Pike</a>. Click <a href="https://youtu.be/KSFC7xyhGfE" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a> to watch a video on what to donate.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT AWARDS & GRANTS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="naco2023mcdottruckday" class="govd_template_image" height="432" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776408/4804389/nacoawards2023truckday_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 226px;" width="226" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Wins National Association of Counties 2023 Achievement Award for Truck Day</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards recognize a county’s outstanding commitment to public service in various categories including civic education and public information; community and economic development; children and youth; and arts and entertainment.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">This year, NACo recognized the <a href="https://www.naco.org/resources/award-programs/truck-day-featuring-%E2%80%9Cpaint-plow%E2%80%9D-contest" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">MCDOT Truck Day featuring the "Paint the Plow" Contest</a> in the Children and Youth category for it's positive impact on the community.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="awardflex-belpresafety" class="govd_template_image" height="278" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776578/4804391/belpre-flex-mcdot222_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 class="paragraph" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><span class="normaltextrun">MCDOT Receives $140,000 for Two Technical Assistance Awards from Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Transportation Planning Board</span></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ Transportation Planning Board (TPB) technical assistance award, for $60,000, is part of the TPB Transportation Land-Use Connections (TLC) Program. The funds will be used to study the County’s Ride On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/flex/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Flex</a> service. Flex is an innovative shared ride service, offering on-demand transit service in defined areas of Rockville and Glenmont/Wheaton. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The additional funding, for $80,000, was awarded under the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm13Y29nLm9yZy90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbi9wbGFubmluZy1hcmVhcy9tYW5hZ2VtZW50LW9wZXJhdGlvbnMtYW5kLXNhZmV0eS9yb2Fkd2F5LXNhZmV0eS9yZWdpb25hbC1zYWZldHktcHJvZ3JhbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjA2Ljc3ODAyMzgxIn0.i65TZxNAXpATXCttwEAge6I0M7yq2ZdebCOnVmfWbjE%2Fs%2F3004584730%2Fbr%2F204268259613-l&data=05%7C01%7Croselle.paquette%40montgomerycountymd.gov%7Cfd34b91299164ccc6a1208db668a21b1%7C6e01b1f9b1e54073ac97778069a0ad64%7C0%7C1%7C638216515714481690%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=MOz2gUTqfNOQFwDIebj2NwMnpF1RsNBCOGiA7yCTlrE%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TPB Regional Roadway Safety Program</a> to advance a comprehensive assessment and design study for safety improvements along Bel Pre Road in Aspen Hill. The application was in partnership with the County’s <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Vision Zero</a> office.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Both projects are slated to begin in FY24 and will last for one year. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43486&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="techassistawardmcdot" class="govd_template_image" height="241" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776645/4804392/techassistmcdot_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Awards $800,000 in Grants to Assist Disabled, Senior, Limited-Income Residents with Transportation Needs</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Funding will be for 23 community-based nonprofits to expand access to transportation to disabled, senior and limited-income residents through the Targeted and Specialized Mobility (TSM) Grant Program.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The TSM Capital Grant program awarded $640,000 for capital projects to a total of 17 nonprofit organizations that serve priority populations within their communities. The grants will fund capital investments to increase access to transportation services for vulnerable community members.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">An additional $160,000 was awarded through the TSM Operating Grant Program to six nonprofit organizations. The funding from these grants will support the day-to-day operating costs associated with increasing access to transportation assistance.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43472&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">FLASH BUS NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="newhampshireflash2" class="govd_template_image" height="265" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776673/4804394/newhampflash_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 227px;" width="227" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT New Hampshire Avenue Flash Bus Corridor Update</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT staff met with residents and bus riders at the recent New Hampshire Avenue Corridor Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting on Thursday, May 18. The Project Team introduced three alternative concepts for implementing Flash Bus Corridor along New Hampshire Avenue and requested input on potential events and locations for engaging with the community. The meeting presentation and summary are now available on the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001iVGExaGztTT6SC9m8iA7XViFz2ojKI3IMDXhQMrX2rbmbw36aZpe0IORzo1dbBs1Pbac4VO9g17w14qbJZri-O7dhcAkxhxDLyUjZ8ULXW1Of-bq2ViiWdAuAkDw9zoZN8SgNe_EYt0UoA_X6dfQj-Bv--gcmrDXE12v-3wezB7U0i4HfoIdM7-CbjQh9lexC-q5X1JqYFdJPHVVlzRgsw==&c=IiHUxZnEjRQOCTqHOQlryaEFtxIjFe4qYriPCSbF4qpqCPK1CD4rtQ==&ch=uubrd0V26rlaBsxtgH_HTMAyWNmcJ0IUSbS5gsKDlAYl2rKqSIDTBg==" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">project website</a> for review.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT encourages the public to explore the online <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001iVGExaGztTT6SC9m8iA7XViFz2ojKI3IMDXhQMrX2rbmbw36aZpe0LC83TtciXuNjmNJBAOyKWmCg2RyVhRUv9NuGO77QDAok9P80czTncxgIfMs2uyraUgmOwfvgGP0ompYjomfWwyW2xC8YcWdUgKcI22En6MXWVY-dzc569SUxCfv6SXayWSXIostD4ZGQS12OIIhM6oYOEkc8oonJw==&c=IiHUxZnEjRQOCTqHOQlryaEFtxIjFe4qYriPCSbF4qpqCPK1CD4rtQ==&ch=uubrd0V26rlaBsxtgH_HTMAyWNmcJ0IUSbS5gsKDlAYl2rKqSIDTBg==" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">webmap</a> and comment on the Flash Bus Corridor alternatives. Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/06/mcdot-new-hampshire-avenue-flash-bus.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Montgomery County’s University Boulevard to Get a Temporary Bus/Bike Lane, Awaiting Flash Bus Corridor Implementation</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT plans to install temporary <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/buspriority/university.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">combined bus and bicycle lanes on University Boulevard</a> to speed riders and cyclists along and enable data collection for a future redesign. In the longer term, the corridor will get a comprehensive overhaul with the addition of a Flash Bus Corridor. Montgomery County’s Bus Rapid Transit is marketed as Flash. Flash is Montgomery County’s bus rapid transit (BRT) system. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The University Boulevard pilot is the largest of <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/buspriority.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">MCDOT’s bus priority projects</a> and will extend over 2 miles from Amherst Avenue to Dennis Avenue with the highest ridership in Maryland and among the top 5 or 6 in the Washington region. Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/06/montgomery-countys-university-blvd-to.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT CONTESTS & CLASSES</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="scooterclassjune" class="govd_template_image" height="292" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776706/4804396/e-scooterclassesspringflyer-june_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Sponsors Last “Free” Electric Scooter Class for Spring, Saturday, June 18</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Stop by the Montgomery College <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Montgomery+College+Rockville,+Parking+Lot+%2313,+900+Hungerford+Dr,+Rockville,+MD+20850/@39.0957501,-77.1569402,17.33z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7cd7a37b87403:0x6c577f7591b5e806!8m2!3d39.0961227!4d-77.1556152!16s%2Fg%2F11d_ys84l0?entry=ttu" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">parking lot 13</a> in Rockville between 1-3 p.m. to take a test ride, learn safety tips and get details on basic scooter laws. Residents must be 18 and older with a valid driver’s license or ID.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Keep an eye out for future classes this fall, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/bikewalk/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">tinyurl.com/cycleclss</a> or call 240-777-8380.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="painttheplow2023winners" class="govd_template_image" height="267" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776805/4804400/painttheplow23_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 232px;" width="232" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Redland Middle School Named Winner of MCDOT’s “Paint the Plow” Contest to Celebrate Public Works Week</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Leading up to Public Works Week, eleven Montgomery County middle schools participated in the “<a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43416&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Paint the Plow</a>” contest to celebrate the many contributions made by public works employees that keep the County running.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The snowplow entries were showcased during MCDOT’s family-friendly ‘Truck Day’ event that was held on Saturday, May 20. The free event had more than 1,000 attendees who were invited to vote for their favorite snowplow design. The decorated plows will be part of the MCDOT fleet that will be clearing snow from streets this winter. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The middle school <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/PaintThePlow/index.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">winners selected</a> were:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">1st place (won $500): Redland MS “<em>Snowkémon</em>.”</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">2nd place (won $300): Westland MS “<em>Plowser</em>.”</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">3rd place (won $200): John Poole MS “<em>Winter Warrior</em>.”</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="2023ESartcontestwinners" class="govd_template_image" height="308" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777033/4804406/esartcontestwinners_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 219px;" width="219" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Announces Winner of Elementary School Pedestrian Safety Art Contest </strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The contest aimed to raise awareness on the importance of pedestrian safety. MCDOT chose six winners out of nearly 400 art submissions which received a surprise visit from Zeal the Safety Zebra who <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/albums/72177720308486299" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">presented Barnes & Noble gift cards</a> to the K-3 winners and Amazon gift cards to the 4-5 grade winners. View the list of winners and their art entries <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Pedsafety/ArtContest/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>K-3 Grade Winners:</strong></p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">1st Place: Jingyi (Ann) Y., <em>Beverly Farms ES</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">2nd Place: Abigail J., <em>William B. Gibbs ES</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">3rd Place: Annabelle G., <em>Wayside ES</em></li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>4-5 Grade Winners:</strong></p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">1st Place: Katie W., <em>Burning Tree ES</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">2nd Place: Fiorella R., <em>Fox Chapel ES</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">3rd Place: Leah W., <em>Candlewood ES</em></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="vzpedartcontestwinners2023" class="govd_template_image" height="428" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777092/4804404/espedartcontestwinners2023_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 207px;" width="207" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT Announces Winner for Middle School Online Art Contest as Part of the Vision Zero Youth Ambassador Program</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">As part of MCDOT’s <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-pedsafety/VZYA/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Vision Zero Youth Ambassador program</a>, MCDOT announced the first-ever online art contest for middle school students in grades 6-8. The contest allowed students to showcase their artistic skills while also educating others on the importance of pedestrian safety.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Students that submitted quality submissions received two Student Service Learning Hours, as well as the chance to win additional prizes for placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd ($100, $50 and $25 Amazon Gift Cards respectively.)</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: inside; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/52921811871/in/album-72177720308520216/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">1st place</a>: Aditi Thankur, 7th grade, <em>Parkland Magnet MS</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/52922198445/in/album-72177720308520216/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">2nd place</a>: Caitlyn M., 6th grade, <em>Cabin John MS</em></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/52921812346/in/album-72177720308520216/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">3rd place</a>: Joyce F., 8th grade, <em>Cabin John MS</em></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">Local News and Announcements</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="Govsafetywalk-may31-2023" class="govd_template_image" height="326" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777247/4804409/safetywalkw-mcdot20235-23_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Governor Wes Moore Visits Wheaton for a Safety Walk on Georgia Avenue</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Montgomery County officials hosted Governor Wes Moore for a <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow/status/1663993762962448385" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">safety walk</a> on Georgia Avenue on Wednesday, May 31, from 3 - 4 p.m. The walk showed off the high-speed, multilane road that is hazardous to pedestrians and the need for a transformation into an urban boulevard that is safe for alternate modes and will support a vibrant downtown community. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">As a next step, the County is asking the Governor to fund a planning study that would consider the elements of a boulevard. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">County Executive Marc Elrich, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld, County Council members including Council President Evan Glass and Councilmember Natali Fani-Gonzalez, MCDOT Director, Chris Conklin, and other State and County officials participated. View related pictures on MCDOT's Twitter post <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow/status/1664028928414031873" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>. </p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="soberride4thofjuly2023" class="govd_template_image" height="290" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7779940/4805403/wrap-soberride-july4-2023-crops-page-1-scaled_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 225px;" width="225" /><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>SoberRide Offers Free Lyft Rides Home on Independence Day</strong></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Washington Regional Alcohol Program’s (WRAP) SoberRide program will offer codes for free Lyft rides up to $15. If you choose to celebrate Independence Day with alcohol plan ahead to arrange a sober ride home. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Visit <a href="https://wrap.org/soberride/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">soberride.com</a> in a few weeks to get the code and additional details.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Residents can also visit Montgomery County's Vision Zero website for sober ride options <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero/saferide.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">METRO UPDATES</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="left" alt="metrobus-rail" class="govd_template_image" height="315" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/02/5478521/2_original.png" style="border: 0px none; float: left; height: auto; width: 226px;" width="226" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>WMATA to Launch New Reduced Fare Program ‘Metro Lift’ to Create More Equitable, Affordable Access to Transit Across the Region on Tuesday, June 20</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For the first time, Metro will offer reduced fares to assist low-income customers. Customers in DC, Maryland and Virginia who qualify for the US Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) are eligible to enroll.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Customers enrolled in Metro Lift will receive a 50 percent discount for any travel on Metrorail and Metrobus.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Online enrollment and appointment scheduling will begin on Tuesday, June 20, at <a href="https://wmata.com/fares/Reduced-Fare-Programs/MetroLift/index.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">wmata.com/MetroLift</a>. In-person enrollment will begin at three sites starting on Monday, June 26. Learn more <a href="https://wmata.com/about/news/Metro-Lift-launches-June-20.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Red Line Service Improvements Began Monday, June 12</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Red Line trains are now operating every six minutes until 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and every 10 minutes 9:30 p.m. to close. On weekends, Red Line trains will continue operating every eight minutes until 9:30 p.m., where frequencies will slow to every 10 minutes. Learn more <a href="https://www.wmata.com/about/news/June-2023-service-improvements.cfm" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Call For Public Feedback on </strong><strong>Metro’s Better Bus</strong> <strong>System Redesign</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Metro’s Better Bus network is a big deal for riders in Maryland and Virginia. View the highlights of the proposed bus system redesign, and give Metro your feedback before the comment period ends Monday, June 18, visit <a href="https://betterbus.wmata.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">betterbus.wmata.com</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Phase Three of Glenmont Metro Station Bus Bay Closures to Begin Monday, June 26</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Monday, September. 12, 2022, Metro began replacing the glass canopies at the Glenmont Station. During the glass canopy construction, some bus bays have been closed in phases and the associated bus routes have been temporarily relocated. Phase Three is projected to begin on Monday, June 26 with the closing of Bays E and F. Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/06/phase-three-of-glenmont-metro-station.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h1 class="govd_header" style="font-size: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">TRANSPORTATION NEWS</h1><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="83bikeshare" class="govd_template_image" height="183" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2018/05/1963507/4805404/83bikeshare-pikeandrose_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 127px;" width="127" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Capital Bikeshare Hits Highest Monthly Use Ever, Showing Gains out of the Pandemic</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Bikeshare officials attribute the record to tourism returning, good weather, their new fleet of e-bikes, and the increasing number of protected bike lanes across D.C. and the region. Read the DCist article <a href="https://dcist.com/story/23/06/05/dc-capital-bikeshare-hits-highest-monthly-use/" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">DID YOU KNOW? 90 Bikeshare stations are available throughout Montgomery County. Find a station near you at <a href="https://account.capitalbikeshare.com/map" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">capitalbikeshare.com/map</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="gd_combo_first_text"><td class="gd_combo_text_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Shared Micromobility Boosts Job Access When Linked with Public Transit: Report</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The study found that, compared with cars, micromobility provided similar access to jobs for trips under 15 minutes and, in large metro areas with good public transit, 30-minute trips. Read the Smart Cities Dive article <a href="https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/shared-micromobility-job-access-public-transit-numo/651468/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p></td><td class="gd_combo_spacer" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="4"></td><td class="gd_combo_image_cell" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="127"><img alt="article2023456" class="govd_template_image" height="142" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776358/4804410/article46464646_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 127px;" width="127" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="ggwsrticle6-23" class="govd_template_image" height="153" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776346/4804411/ggwarticle6_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 127px;" width="127" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>One of the Best Transit Tools of the Future is an Old Friend - The Bus</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Bus rapid transit is the fastest growing mode of transit in the U.S. and is leading how the nation prioritizes its mobility landscape.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">During this time of rapidly emerging technologies and high automation deployed on the nation’s roadways, the transit world is making one of the most significant impacts to the future of mobility with an old friend – the bus. Read the Mass Transit article <a href="https://www.masstransitmag.com/bus/article/53060558/one-of-the-best-transit-tools-of-the-future-is-an-old-friend-the-bus?utm_source=MASS+NewsViews+Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CPS230608039&o_eid=7429H9495878E2B&rdx.ident%5bpull%5d=omeda%7C7429H9495878E2B" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="gd_combo_table" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img align="right" alt="gwallet" class="govd_template_image" height="187" hspace="7" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776342/4804412/gwallet_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; float: right; height: auto; width: 127px;" width="127" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Maryland Mobile ID Launches on Google Wallet</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Maryland is the first state to offer digital licenses and IDs in Google Wallet. Gov. Wes Moore announced that the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration launched Maryland Mobile ID in Google Wallet. Learn more <a href="https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/s/ip1t1/maryland-mobile-id-launches-on-google-wallet-moor" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 357.322px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="gomofooter" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/10/2889009/2847579/mcdotfooter_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 397px;" width="397" /></a><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For more information on MCDOT programs and services, visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to receive the latest MCDOT news to your mobile phone or email inbox.</p></td><td bgcolor="#D5EAFF" data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Sidebar" id="gd_ab_sidebar_col" style="background-color: #d5eaff; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; vertical-align: top; width: 190px;" valign="top" width="190"><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">JUNE 2023</h2><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="socialmediaicons" class="govd_template_image" height="169" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/12/6805989/4629069/mcdotsocial0_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="FathersDay" class="govd_template_image" height="181" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7774762/4804413/fathersday_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 align="left" style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>MCDOT HOLIDAY SCHEDULE</strong></h2><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="Juneteenthholiday" class="govd_template_image" height="178" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7774760/4804818/juneteenth19mcdot3_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Juneteenth-Monday, June 19</strong></p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">County offices - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Ride On</a>, extRa, Flex and Flash Orange Line bus - Holiday schedule.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-DIR/commuter/trips/index.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TRiPS Silver Spring</a> Commuter Store - Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/trips/mobile-commuter-store-sched.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TRiPS Mobile</a> Commuter Store - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Parking at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-parking/Parking-Facilities/PLDInfo.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton</a> public garages, lots and meters - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/holiday_schedules.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Free</a>.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View more schedule changes <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43489&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="4thjuly22" class="govd_template_image" height="110" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/06/4683312/4804819/4thofjulysm_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Independence Day - Tuesday, July 4</strong></p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">County offices - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ride On, extRa and Flex bus - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Saturday</a> schedule.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ride On Flash (Orange Line) bus - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/SpecialHoliday.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Holiday</a></li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">TRiPS Silver Spring Commuter and Mobile Stores - Closed.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Parking at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-parking/Parking-Facilities/PLDInfo.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton</a> public garages, lots and meters - <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/holiday_schedules.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Free</a>.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Offers Tips to Celebrate Safely for the Fourth of July</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Learn more <a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/celebrate-america-safely-july-4th" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="rideonsystemmap2023" class="govd_template_image" height="474" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777336/4804420/rideonsystemmaps2023sm_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="font-size: 15px; margin: 3px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Ride On’s 2023 System Maps Are Now Available At </strong><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Files/Site%20Distribution%20List%20for%20Timetables%20and%20System%20Maps%20Final.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Multiple Sites</a></h3><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View maps <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/Resources/Files/9_MON_MaG_MontgomeryCo_24x26_230216%20FINAL.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">MCDOT IS HIRING</h2><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="nowhiring" class="govd_template_image" height="101" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/07/6129142/4384721/hiringcdlscr_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Join Our Team! </strong></p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Program Administration & Compliance Coordinator (<em>IRC57680</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Executive Administrative Aide (<em>IRC58502</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Accountant/Auditor I/II/III (<em>IRC58002</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Capital Projects Manager (<em>IRC57387</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Management & Budget Specialist III (<em>IRC57079</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Senior Engineer (<em>IRC56574</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Engineer Technician I/II (<em>IRC58000</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Engineer III/II/I (Fiber - Telecom) (<em>IRC57554</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Transit Coordinator (<em>IRC58510</em>)</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Traffic Management Technician I/II (<em>IRC58003</em>)</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For details on the above job postings search the IRC number on Montgomery County's Career website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HR/Recruitment/MCGCareers.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/jobs.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="hiringbusoperatorsnow" class="govd_template_image" height="184" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2021/12/5301144/4805405/rohiring2_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /></a><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">SCHOOL OUTREACH PROGRAMS </h2><img alt="visionzeroyouth" class="govd_template_image" height="145" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2022/11/6667410/4805406/vision_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors Increase Awareness Around Traffic Safety</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Pedsafety/VZYA/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors</a> were tasked to complete group projects that encompass engineering, education, or enforcement for traffic safety. Resources and project guidance were provided by MCDOT to execute projects that will ultimately improve the safety of County residents.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT held the ambassador graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 20 of its largest cohort yet of 40 ambassadors who served as youth keynote speakers and presented to parents and community leaders their summaries of their project work. Learn more <a href="https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/2023/06/vision-zero-youth-ambassadors-increase.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="wildcatbikeroadeo2023" class="govd_template_image" height="107" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777211/4805407/wildcats-in-excel-beyond-the-bell-learned-about-gen_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="xmsonormal" style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Hosts Bike Rodeos in May for Bike Month</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The MCDOT Pedestrian Safety team hosted a Bike Rodeo at 14 schools in May distributing 400 free helmets to students in honor of Bike Month. The in-person bike clinic addresses <a href="https://montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/Resources/Files/PedSafety/BIKESAFETY.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">bicycle safety</a>, including hands-on bike safety instruction, a discussion about the rules of the road and bike safety tips including the proper fitting and importance of wearing a bike helmet.<s></s></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Is your community or school interested in hosting a bike rodeo? Learn more <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SRTS/bike-rodeo.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="walkingwedmcdotsrts" class="govd_template_image" height="297" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7775127/4804422/wwedsrts_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Safe Routes to School Program Hosts Walking Wednesdays</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT’s Pedestrian Safety team along with Zeal the Safety Zebra visited 30 schools this year so far reaching out to 20,000 students and encouraged <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/srts/students.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">safe walking and biking</a> by distributing safety materials and giveaways.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Schools interested in participating in a Walking Wednesday can visit the program website <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-PedSafety/SRTS/walking-wednesdays.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>. View photos from past visits <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/195568163@N06/albums" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">ROAD WORK</h2><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="paving-mcdot2023" class="govd_template_image" height="164" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777465/4804423/twinnbrook-pkwy-bus-pad-under-construction-photo_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT's Residential Roadway Repair Program Update</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT provides for the permanent patching and/or resurfacing of <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/roadmaint/Pavement_Management/Residental/ResidentialResurfaingindex.html" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">residential roadways</a>. </p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Sumner%20Phase%20I%20-%20Rehab%20-2021_61.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Sumner Phase I</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Sumner%20Phase%20II%20-%20Rehab%20-2021_62.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Phase II</a>, Bethesda</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Tanglewood%20Rehab%202022_6_13%20DRAFT.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Tanglewood Subdivision</a>, Silver Spring</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Oak%20Springs%20Phase%20II%20(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Oak Spring Phase II</a>, Colesville</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Hillmead%20Road%20(1).pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Hillmead Road</a>, Bethesda</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Manor%20Park%20Phase%20I.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Manor Park Phase I</a>, Rockville</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Highway/Resources/Files/Mazza%20Woods%20Subdivision.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Mazza Woods Subdivision</a>, Bethesda</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="mowing4" class="govd_template_image" height="93" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7780007/4805429/mowing_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Who Mows County Roadways?</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT is responsible for mowing county-owned roadway median strips and right-of-ways throughout Montgomery County. To report high grass along a roadway <a href="https://www3.montgomerycountymd.gov/311/SolutionView.aspx?SolutionId=1-27LD8G" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">contact MC311</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For mowing on State maintained roadways, which are generally identifiable by route numbers (such as I-495 or RT 355) please call the State Highway Administration at 301-513-7300. Municipalities such as City of Rockville (240-314-8500) and Gaithersburg (301-258-6370) are responsible for their own roadways within their city limits.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><img alt="paint truck" class="govd_template_image" height="140" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7776880/4805431/image_crop.jpeg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 186px;" width="186" /><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Continues Road Striping Operations Using Newly Unveiled Paint Truck on Montgomery County Owned Roads</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT urges motorists to use caution when encountering work crews. Crisp, easy-to-see striping is a crucial safety feature on our roadways and are refreshed periodically for the safety of all who travel our County roadways. Most of the striping is done during daylight hours. Rain or very damp conditions will cancel or cut short any striping work that is scheduled.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Drivers may come upon slow-moving trucks updating road markings throughout the summer. Striping crews must travel slowly as they paint roadway markings to ensure a good quality line.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Motorists should follow these safety tips:</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Be patient if you come across MCDOT crews and give them the space to do their job safely.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Slow down as soon as you see the lights and signs and keep your distance until it is safe to go around the trucks. </li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Buckle Up, Phones Down and don't drive distracted.</li></ul><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-size: 17px; margin: 5px 0px 4px; padding: 0px;">PARKING UPDATES</h2><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="garagewash2" class="govd_template_image" height="228" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2019/05/2603291/garagewash_original.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>MCDOT Completes Spring Cleaning of Public Parking Garages</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Monday, April 10, MCDOT began its semi-annual <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43058&Dept=50" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">interior washdown</a> to degrease and clean 21 County-owned parking garages in <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Bethesda</a>, <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/SilverSpringPLD.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Silver Spring</a> and <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/WheatonPLD.html" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Wheaton</a>, wrapping up on Saturday, June 3.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">MCDOT performs spring and fall washdowns to keep garages clean and help keep grease, oil and debris out of local waterways and prevents deterioration from prolonged exposure to salt, sand, oils, gas, dirt, pollen and leaves.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Resources/Files/Lot%2043%20mitigation%20flyer%20May%202023%20pdf.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="lot43parkingalternatives" class="govd_template_image" height="197" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7775137/4804424/lot43closure_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>Woodmont Avenue Parking Lot 43 Closes in Downtown Bethesda</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">On Friday, June 9 the Woodmont Ave. Parking Lot 43 at 8009 Woodmont Ave. was closed permanently to accommodate the redevelopment of the site into a mixed-use project including residential and retail uses. Residents can find nearby short-term and ADA parking at</p><ul style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 0px 3em; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html#collapseThree" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Woodmont/Rugby Garage 35</a> at 8216 Woodmont Ave.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html#collapseTen" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">St. Elmo Ave. Parking Lot 8</a> at 4835 Cordell Ave.</li><li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Parking-Facilities/BethesdaPLD.html#collapseFourteen" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">Cordell Ave. Parking Lot 28</a> at 4854 Cordell Ave.</li></ul><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">View a map of the nearby parking areas <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Parking/Resources/Files/Lot%2043%20mitigation%20flyer%20May%202023%20pdf.pdf" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">For questions call customer service at 240-777-8740.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><img alt="newparkinghourssat" class="govd_template_image" height="262" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/06/7777394/4804820/newparkingchanges2_crop.jpg" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;"><strong>New Saturday Parking Hours for County-Operated Garages, Parking Lots and Meters in Downtown Bethesda and Silver Spring Go Into Effect on Saturday, July 8</strong></p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">The Saturday hours and rates will be the same as the existing weekday schedules. Sundays will remain free. </p><p style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 16px 0px 1em;">Parking revenue will be used to implement new safety and security measures in Downtown Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton parking facilities. This will include installing more lighting and cameras, in addition to maintenance. Learn more <a href="https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=43519&Dept=50" rel="noopener" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td align="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mc311/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="callmc311" class="govd_template_image" height="221" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2023/03/7324306/4804427/mc311-getitdone_crop.png" style="border: 0px none; height: auto; width: 187px;" width="187" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 168.298px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr><tr><td data-govdstyle="all" data-govdtitle="Footer" id="gd_ab_footer" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url("http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MDMONTGOMERY/2013/05/184745/gomontgomery-footer-bkg-40px_original.gif"); background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: initial; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px 0px 4px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="govd_hr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr class="govd_hr_inner"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;" valign="top" width="100%"><hr style="border-bottom: 0px; border-image: initial; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: solid; color: #cccccc; height: 1px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px; width: 536.402px;" /></td></tr></tbody></table><p align="left" class="gd_p" style="font-family: verdana, geneva; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 10px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px 0px 1em;">Go Montgomery is distributed by <a href="http://montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot" style="color: #1d5782; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>Montgomery County Government Department of Transportation</b></a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-78355651704353860932023-06-15T10:23:00.010-04:002023-06-27T14:55:33.173-04:00Montgomery County’s University Blvd to Get a Temporary Bus/Bike Lane, Awaiting Flash Bus Corridor Implementation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQyKulM_vazLed6uxxtrio3i9Xs53XGCiMCl87zl2-2q_1xYLQc69rpb2LPBOwVizp1kqPSrV8gZwTNhOFxD70JQPH_9QqDFid4vBA-IKwT7O2XY4dD3re5wXsJOoRrECbOVXIzTl2ce6Du1b4lnXrYmH22D200RXy7zni6d9SNq7kuZ0S7kDdB-O/s1298/UnivBlvdProposedbuslanes-scr.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1298" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQyKulM_vazLed6uxxtrio3i9Xs53XGCiMCl87zl2-2q_1xYLQc69rpb2LPBOwVizp1kqPSrV8gZwTNhOFxD70JQPH_9QqDFid4vBA-IKwT7O2XY4dD3re5wXsJOoRrECbOVXIzTl2ce6Du1b4lnXrYmH22D200RXy7zni6d9SNq7kuZ0S7kDdB-O/w640-h344/UnivBlvdProposedbuslanes-scr.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>MCDOT plans to install temporary <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/buspriority/university.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">combined bus and bicycle lanes on University Boulevard</a> to speed riders and cyclists along and enable data collection for a future redesign. In the longer term, the corridor will get a comprehensive overhaul with the addition of a Flash Bus Corridor. Montgomery County’s Bus Rapid Transit is marketed as Flash. Flash is Montgomery County’s bus rapid transit (BRT) system. Nationally, BRT is recognized as a high-capacity bus-based transit system that delivers fast service that may include dedicated bus lanes, traffic signal priority, off-board fare collection, elevated platforms and enhanced, modern stations. Pedestrian and bicycle enhancements are incorporated as part of the Flash implementation long term.</p><p></p>
<p>The bus and bike lane pilot will serve buses, bicycles, and emergency vehicles; cars will be allowed in the lane only to turn right. Giving buses their own lane to zip past traffic is the<a href="https://ggwash.org/view/80846/london-calling-what-car-free-lanes-and-cameras-can-do-for-bus-service"> gold standard for advancing transportation equity, attracting new riders, and lowering congestion</a>. In the next several years, Montgomery County plans for a substantial portion of its projected network to meet this standard. Route 29 Flash is the first corridor in the County and is in service.</p>
<p>The University Boulevard pilot is the largest of <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT/Projects/buspriority.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">MCDOT’s bus priority projects</a> and will extend over 2 miles from Amherst Avenue to Dennis Avenue. It will carry the C2 and C4, bus lines with the highest ridership in Maryland and among the top 5 or 6 in the Washington region. </p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-22048329248334856652023-06-14T20:23:00.007-04:002023-07-05T16:40:55.535-04:00Phase Three of Glenmont Metro Station Bus Bay Closures to Begin Monday, July 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdNVzjQalmQhiac95r9LJwqVjgVap18DbL4TU1Zpe9_-scFBaobv23cZNJSxaq4NaXjUdWe4zhoSYsw1vgneCV0HEG7KkpKRjlXtvKINSlPoF8ODbVutPUqXLMTxy-tcehxfIi_nUcbrDsk0-RgxEa5DqOSdkSidctDhIxbsb79HWKoVscM-9CIhl4sI/s912/glenmontmetro-july10-2023changes.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="614" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSdNVzjQalmQhiac95r9LJwqVjgVap18DbL4TU1Zpe9_-scFBaobv23cZNJSxaq4NaXjUdWe4zhoSYsw1vgneCV0HEG7KkpKRjlXtvKINSlPoF8ODbVutPUqXLMTxy-tcehxfIi_nUcbrDsk0-RgxEa5DqOSdkSidctDhIxbsb79HWKoVscM-9CIhl4sI/s16000/glenmontmetro-july10-2023changes.png" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="margin-bottom: 13.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 13.5pt;"><span face="Helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: small;">Update: Phase Three of Glenmont
Metro Station Bus Bay Closures to Begin on Monday, July 10<o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
</p><p style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin-bottom: 11.25pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 11.25pt; text-size-adjust: 100%;"><span face="Helvetica, sans-serif">Metro began
replacing the glass canopies at the Glenmont Station on Sept. 12, 2022. During
the glass canopy construction, some bus bays have been closed in phases and the
associated bus routes have been temporarily relocated. Phase Three is now
projected to begin on Monday, July 10, with the closing of Bays E & F. The
information below shows temporary locations of the affected bus routes. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Phase 3 - Bus Bays E and F will be closed:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Ride
On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route010.html">10</a> (Twinbrook and Hillandale)
will use Bus Bay D</li><li>Ride
On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route026.html">26</a> (Montgomery Mall Transit
Center) will use Bus Bay C</li><li>Ride
On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route031.html">31</a> (Wheaton) will use Bus Bay C</li><li>Ride
On <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/allroutes/route049.html">49</a> (Rockville) will use Bus Bay
C</li><li>The
<a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/getting-fda/fda-shuttle-bus">FDA shuttle</a> will use Bus Bay D</li><li>Metrobus
<a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/upload/Y278_170625.pdf">Y2, Y7, Y8</a> (Silver Spring) will use Bus
Bay D</li><li>Metrobus
<a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/upload/C8_170924.pdf">C8</a> (College Park and North
Bethesda) will use Bus Bay H</li><li>Metro
<a href="https://www.wmata.com/service/accessibility/metro-access/">Access</a> and Metrobus Shuttle will
use Bus Bay D</li></ul><o:p></o:p><p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: "Paquette\, Roselle" 20230614T2019; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: "Paquette\, Roselle" 20230614T2019; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: "Paquette\, Roselle" 20230614T2019; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-prop-change: "Paquette\, Roselle" 20230614T2019; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p style="background: white;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">For the most up to date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on <a href="https://twitter.com/RideOnMCT" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/RideOnMCT/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a>,
and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsfV-Du4y5TlZF8v0Mm4Mmg" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">YouTube.</span></a> In addition, information is
available at <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">rideonbus.com</span></a>, by <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribing</span></a> to receive email alerts, or by
texting MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white;"><u1:p></u1:p><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">For
information on MCDOT programs and services visit <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/index.html/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot</span></a>, follow @MCDOTNow
on <a href="https://twitter.com/MCDOTNow" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Twitter</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MCDOTNow/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Facebook</span></a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcdotnow/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDMONTGOMERY/subscriber/new?topic_id=MDMONTGOMERY_28" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #355997;">subscribe</span></a> to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!”
newsletter.<o:p style="font-size: 10pt;"></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411665161602690095.post-55273425451126355922023-06-14T19:54:00.005-04:002023-06-15T11:41:10.616-04:00MCDOT New Hampshire Avenue Flash Bus Corridor Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbIvlMoD-3QcEvYM3tPSgGvoro7i-_kybcvkEk8JHwkltxw5jOkoeAHz5p6fkRpP51f3fLiU2FkTMommqdTl09dXGKcbykABlnYD1Whe11_t4jdWP4UgT6VV-Z2JpGbcTgmupveOMLgTYkcTXLVEIudvgmuw61aTrJ74D7dIJZ32BHjeHpmjLithU/s1024/newhampflash2scr.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1024" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWbIvlMoD-3QcEvYM3tPSgGvoro7i-_kybcvkEk8JHwkltxw5jOkoeAHz5p6fkRpP51f3fLiU2FkTMommqdTl09dXGKcbykABlnYD1Whe11_t4jdWP4UgT6VV-Z2JpGbcTgmupveOMLgTYkcTXLVEIudvgmuw61aTrJ74D7dIJZ32BHjeHpmjLithU/w640-h344/newhampflash2scr.png" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">MCDOT staff enjoyed the opportunity to meet with residents and bus riders at the recent New Hampshire Avenue Corridor Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting on Thursday, May 18. The Project Team introduced three alternative concepts for implementing Flash Bus Corridor along New Hampshire Avenue and requested input on potential events and locations for engaging with the community. The meeting presentation and summary are now available on the <a href="https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dte/projects/newhampshireave/" target="_blank">project website</a> for review.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Flash is Montgomery County’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System. BRT is a high-capacity public transportation system designed to provide efficient, reliable, and rapid bus services. It combines the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of bus transportation with the speed and quality of service comparable to a rail system. BRT systems typically with some dedicated bus lanes, signal priority and pre-boarding payment to facilitate faster service and maintain consistent schedules. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">On Saturday, June 3, the project team kicked off the next phase of public outreach at White Oak Day. Throughout this summer, MCDOT staff and the project team will be at bus stops and community events along the corridor to introduce the alternatives, present results from the ongoing evaluation process, collect feedback and answer questions.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have suggestions for key community events or venues where we can best reach residents and transit users, please reach out to Corey Pitts at <a href="mailto:cory.pitts@montgomerycountymd.gov">cory.pitts@montgomerycountymd.gov</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">MCDOT encourages the public to explore the online <a href="https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3f4a6ce823c1498c9b35ea952237ea81" target="_blank">webmap</a> and comment on the Flash Bus Corridor alternatives. You can toggle between the alternatives, zoom in to proposed BRT station areas, click on the blue "info" buttons for additional details and context, and use the "Submit a comment" button in the upper right-hand corner to provide feedback on alternatives and station areas. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Public feedback will help MCDOT fine tune the options being considered and shape the project.</span></p>MCDOThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15943972424239705855noreply@blogger.com