Tuesday, November 24, 2020

MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter is Now Available - November 24, 2020

 

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thanksgiving2020

chriswithmask

Thanksgiving Message from MCDOT Director Chris Conklin

The year 2020 is unlikely to be remembered by most people as a high point.  I have been thinking a lot about what has happened over the past year and it is easy to focus on the difficulties and challenges that we have faced personally and collectively. I want to acknowledge the determination it has taken across MCDOT to keep our public services going in the face of professional and personal challenges.   

One might ask: What is there to celebrate this year at Thanksgiving?  Well, quite a lot actually. Our community is intact and has come together to strive to meet the needs of those who are struggling. Our local elected leaders and health authorities have demonstrated the courage to take unpopular steps to manage the virus. Our economy has fared better than many expected, although there are still challenges ahead. Our department has come together to support each other and deliver essential services for our community, and we have adapted to new ways of working.  

Personally, I am thankful for the resilience of my family, the strength of this community, and the commitment of my friends and colleagues at MCDOT. I am sure you have things to give thanks for personally as well. I wish each and every member of MCDOT and the residents we serve a Happy Thanksgiving and hope that you can find things large and small to give thanks for.  


holidaymessage3

Holiday Safety Guidance for Montgomery County

As residents start to think and plan for the upcoming holidays, Montgomery County officials are urging residents to plan for celebrations with consideration for family and friends during this time of COVID-19. Specific guidance recommended for local residents can be viewed here.

Montgomery County has created detailed guidelines for celebrating the holidays safely. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions’ Celebrating Thanksgiving guidelines and guidelines for holiday celebrations and small gatherings provide additional safety resources.


healthorder

Montgomery County Further Limits Indoor and Outdoor Gathering Size; Masks Required Outdoors at All Times

Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles announced that effective 5 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 24, indoor gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited and mandates that face coverings are required at all times outdoors and also indoors in public facilities. Outdoor gatherings of more than 25 people continue to be prohibited.


leaf

MCDOT Continues Leaf Collection Through Mid-December

MCDOT leaf vacuum collections in the leafing district will continue through mid-December. Find your home’s scheduled collection dates by entering your address here. Residents are asked to pile leaves near the street, but not on the road. Learn more and check out the video on how to prepare leaves properly and why it is important to keep leaf piles clear of trash and off of the streets. 

COVID-19-safe volunteering suggestion: If you are looking for a way to help your community, but still want to remain socially distanced and outdoors, please consider reaching out your elderly neighbors or neighbors with disabilities to ask if they need help raking their leaves. Raking leaves is a great way to help others while getting good exercise.

Is your home outside of @MontCo_Highways Vacuum Leaf Collection District? Would you like to add your community to the MCDOT 's Leaf Collection Program?  Click here for details: ow.ly/2LL750CgC7D.


evbuy3

Deadline Extended: MCDOT Issues Request for Information for Electric Vehicle Group Buy Program

Montgomery County is interested in establishing an Electric Vehicle (EV) Group Buy Program (sometimes known as “Cooperative Purchasing”) to harness the power of volume purchasing and reduce the cost to residents of buying or leasing an EV. To help structure the program in an effective and equitable way, the County has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to obtain input from individuals and organizations who have experience relevant to EV Group Buy programs and those with more general experience and knowledge about electric vehicles. 

Responses are due by Dec. 31. Learn more

aptapledge

MCDOT’s Ride On Pledges to Keep Riders and Staff Safe

MCDOT has joined the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) “Health and Safety Commitments Program,” the public transportation industry’s pledge to passengers that public transit systems are taking all the necessary measures to operate safely as the nation faces the COVID-19 health crisis. Ride On continues to provide limited supplies of face coverings on buses for passengers who cannot provide their own, and has distributed more than 25,000 face coverings to passengers since the start of COVID-19 health crisis. To learn more about what Ride On is doing to keep you safe, read the new COVID-19 Safety Guide that is available in multiple languages; English/ChineseEnglish/FrenchEnglish/KoreanEnglish/Spanish and English/Vietnamese.


lot44-25

MCDOT Issues Request for Development Proposals for Bethesda Public Parking Lots

MCDOT has issued a Request for Development Proposals as it seeks creative, viable proposals from qualified teams for a development project at Public Parking Lots No. 25 and 44 in the Bethesda Parking Lot District. Responses are due by 3 p.m. on Jan. 15, 2021. The deadline for questions is 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4. More information is available onlineLearn more.


lot28

MCDOT Announces Notice of Intent to Begin Negotiations for Redevelopment of Public Parking Lot in Bethesda

Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has published a Notice of Intent to begin negotiations for the redevelopment of Public Parking Lot 28 in Bethesda, Maryland (4854 Cordell Avenue). Any parties wishing to provide comments or other information to MCDOT about development of this parcel must contact MCDOT in writing by 5:00PM on Dec. 11. Learn more.


speedreduction

Public Hearing on Proposed Speed Limit Legislation on Dec. 1

Montgomery County Delegation has proposed legislation that would change the establishment of maximum speed limits in Montgomery County. Find out about the bill under consideration and the Bill Hearing scheduled for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 1. 


mobilestore66

MCDOT Mobile Store Locations

MCDOT recently asked Montgomery County residents to suggest new locations for the Mobile Commuter Store. One of the suggested locations, the Walmart in Germantown, has already been added to the schedule. MCDOT appreciates the feedback and will continue to explore 10 other resident ideas in an effort to improve service and convenience to the public.

The Mobile Commuter Store offers a broad range of services, including selling transit fare cards and passes; offering assistance with route planning; and providing transportation information, schedules and maps.


walknride2020oct

Despite COVID-19, 2020 Walk & Ride Challenge a Success

This year, MCDOT’s annual Walk & Ride Challenge held its first virtual competition with great results – more than 100 teams with nearly 500 participants competed in the three-week event that raised morale, enhanced health and provided team-building benefits. The annual event encourages teams of employees who work in the County’s Transportation Management Districts to incorporate walking into their daily routines. Learn more.


capitalcovidsurvey

Capital COVID Survey: Planning for the Return to Worksites

 A regional survey aimed at better understanding how organizations are planning to reopen worksites and what factors are preventing employers from returning to offices is still open until Dec. 11. Private, public and non-profit employers are encouraged to answer a brief 10-minute survey about their organization's plans for the remainder of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. Complete the survey online.


depgift

MCDOT Assists DEP with ‘Gift Outside the Box!’ Campaign

This holiday season, MCDOT’s Ride On buses will provide advertising support to Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) “Gift Outside the Box” campaign. DEP encourages residents to make more sustainable choices by reducing waste, supporting local businesses, encouraging volunteerism and using alternatives to driving alone. Learn more.


seatbelt

National Seat Belt Enforcement Mobilization November 9-29

Seat belts have been proven to be one of the best ways to save your life in a crash. Yet many still don't buckle up. Worse still, not wearing a seat belt is a habit that will pass on to impressionable youth who, in turn, will think it is safe to not buckle up. The Click It or Ticket campaign focuses on safety education, strong laws, and law enforcement support to save lives.


drinkdrive-dont

Drinking and Driving: Never a Good Idea

During the upcoming holidays, don’t drive drunk or let others drive while impaired. Follow these tips:

If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact local law enforcement by calling 9-1-1.


gomofooter

November 24, 2020


twittermcdotnow

MCDOT’s Holiday Schedule for Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26

  • County offices – Closed.
  • Ride On – Operates on a Sunday schedule.
  • Ride On FLEX – No service.
  • TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center – Closed.
  • TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store – Closed.
  • Parking at public garages, lots, curbside meters – Free.

View more schedules.


parking45

MCDOT Begins New Parking Rates in Silver Spring

On November 16, MCDOT will begin phasing in new parking rates at County-operated garages, parking lots and street meters in Silver Spring. The hourly rate is $1.00 in Garages 3, 7, 9 and 16 and $1.25 in Lot 2.


parkmobilewheaton

New Wheaton Market Place Garage Now Accepts Mobile Payments

Pay for Parking in the Wheaton Market Place Garage (Garage 13) by mobile phone using the ParkMobile app.


leafgropackage

What Happens to Your Leaves Once Collected?

You've seen Leafgro at your local garden center but, do you know where it comes from?

Leaves collected from MCDOT's leaf collection program are stored for a year, then mulched, composted and then packaged to be sold as Leafgro®. Check out MCDOT’s video to find out.

Buy a local organic product. Profits from sales are put directly back into the leafing program. Learn more at ow.ly/GOAG50Cm6fv.

Read mymcmedia.org Nov. 23 article by Reid Flumbaum on what happens after MCDOT collects leaves.


FLASH2020

Flash Bus Interview on Montgomery al Día Radio Program

On Nov. 10, MCDOT’s Maricela Cordova and Marcelo Cortez were guests of Lorna Virgili on her Spanish language Montgomery al Día radio program to discuss the new Flash Bus along US-29. Topics included how to ride the bus, details on amenities like free wi-fi, and information on the design and construction of the unique new bus stations. Listen to the interview online.


ggwarticle4

Counting People on Car-Free Beach Drive

By Libby Solomon • Nov. 13 What does a road look like when it cuts out the 4,000-pound hunks of metal? In Rock Creek Park, apparently, the answer is: very busy. Learn more.


lime

The Limerick Pub in Wheaton Benefits from MCDOT's Shared Streets

Check out this video to see how they're using the outdoor space provided and adapting during the COVID-19 health crisis.


washpostarticle

Think it Will Soon Be Too Cold to Eat Outside?

Heed this advice from Alaska, Scandinavia — even the South Pole. Some people don't just endure cold weather, they embrace it. Perspective by Tom Sietsema of the Washington Post. Learn more.


flashfreewifi

Every FLASH Bus Has Free Wi-Fi and USB Outlets

Charge your phone and browse the web while you #ridetheflash. Learn more about Flash.


wababikewheeley

Liven things up a bit with WABA's DC Bike Ambassador video tutorials on how to do a wheelie. Learn now.


mc322-3

Have you ridden the FLASH and have feedback? Be sure to call 311. If you're calling from outside Montgomery County please dial 240-777-0311.

To report down trees, sidewalk or curb damage, streetlight outage, traffic or pedestrian signal timing issues, street or traffic sign damage or foliage obstruction and pot holes also call 311 or report it online at  montgomerycountymd.gov/
311.


mcdotcovidupdates

For transportation updates visit MCDOT's COVID-19 website at
montgomerycountymd.gov
/DOT/covid19.html.


Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Go Montgomery! Montgomery County's Transportation Newsletter - Nov. 3, 2020

 

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leafing2020

County Leaf Vacuum Collection Begins Nov. 9 and Continues Through Mid-December; MCDOT Has Improved Ease of Finding a Neighborhood's Collection Schedule Online

Starting the week of November 9, MCDOT will begin its annual leaf vacuuming with two collections on every leaf collection district street this fall. This year, a resident can more easily find the collection schedule online by simply entering an address.

The leaf zone 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.

Prior to collection, signs will be posted along streets directing residents to the online leaf collection map and collection date information. 

Residents are asked to pile leaves near the street, but off the road.  Avoid placing leaves on road shoulders, 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 also limit the availability of residential parking, and when wet, can pose a hazard to cyclists and pedestrians.


495-270

Deadline Extended to Nov. 9 for Public Input on I-495/I-270 Managed Lane Study

County Executive Marc Elrich encourages residents to provide comments to the state of Maryland on the feasibility of adding tolled lanes to portions of I-495 and I-270. Elrich asks those who do comment to send a copy to the County Executive and/or the County CouncilProvide comments online.


newrideonbus4

On Nov. 19, Ride On to Hold Virtual Public Forum on Proposed Service Changes

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., Ride On will present proposed changes that begin in January 2021 to Routes 58, 61 and 78 related to the opening of the Watkins Mill Interchange (see map) and Route 83 (see map) related to the Black Hill Development. The public will have an opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions. Learn more. Visit rideonbus.com for updates. 


woodland-shared-streets

MCDOT Creates “Shared Street” on Woodland Drive in Silver Spring

MCDOT has transformed Woodland Drive into a more friendly roadway for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-vehicular users.

Shared Streets “Temporary Neighborhood Greenways” support shared outdoor uses in response to the COVID-19 health crisis by limiting vehicular traffic to local traffic only, while still allowing access by residents, service providers and deliveries. Learn more.


newsidewalk

MCDOT to Hold Virtual Public Hearings on Proposed Sidewalk Construction in Rockville and Silver Spring

The public will have the opportunity to provide feedback on four proposed sidewalks:

The proposed sidewalks are expected to enhance safety for those with disabilities, pedestrians and bicyclists as they travel to schools and nearby facilities. Public input will influence whether MCDOT constructs all or a portion of the sidewalks.


wheatongarage

New Wheaton Garage Features Environmentally-Friendly Features

MCDOT has a new underground garage that is part of the Wheaton Revitalization project. The garage was designed to be less impactful on the environment. Highlights include:

  • Electric vehicle charging stations and the infrastructure to add more in the future.
  • Bike racks to secure 26 bikes.
  • A secure bike storage room for building tenants.
  • Parking availability signs that display the number of available parking spaces in the garage to prevent unnecessary circling for a parking spot.
  • Garage LED lighting activated by motion sensors to turn on lights only when needed.

Learn more about the Wheaton Revitalization project.


vopawards

MCDOT Receives the 2020 Voice of the People Award

MCDOT received a Transformation in Mobility Voice of the People award from the National Research Center at Polco and ICMA. Winners and finalists receive the highest or most improved ratings from residents and the strongest commitment to best practices. Learn more.


mcdotcovidcorps

MCDOT Continues to Work With Covid Corps This Fall

MCDOT’s COVID Corps will continue their efforts to monitor whether e-scooters are properly parked in the Silver Spring Central Business District. Staff will also greet riders during peak travel times at the Silver Spring Transit Center and distribute Ride On and other transportation information.

COVID Corps” is an employment program for residents ages 16 to 23 that provides them with opportunities to support the County’s COVID-19 response.


newSSgaragethayer

New Silver Spring Parking Rates in November

New parking rates are being phased in at Montgomery County public garages, parking lots and street meters in Silver Spring. Learn more.


visionzeroyouth

Montgomery County’s Vision Zero Program Continues Road Safety Upgrades and Enhanced Impaired Driving Enforcement

The fall and winter months bring less daylight and darker commuting hours. Last weekend’s end to Daylight Savings Time traditionally marks a period of increased crashes between drivers and pedestrians. Two-thirds of all fatal pedestrian injuries over the past four years occurred between dusk and dawn.

Montgomery County’s Vision Zero Initiative continues to make upgrades to streetlighting and crosswalks to protect pedestrians. Look out for each other and obey the rules of the road. Learn more.


westernworkaround

MCDOT’s Marcelo Cortez Updates Friends of White Flint on Western Workaround Project

View  Project Manager Marcelo Cortez’s presentation online about the progress of MCDOT’s Western Workaround project in White Flint. The project will improve sidewalks, bikeways, trails, paths, public use space, parks and recreational facilities; add mixed-use development; and enhance streetscape and transit-oriented development around the Metro station. Sign up to receive project updates. For more information, read the Nov. 1 newsletter


paytrainsit

MCDOT Receives $468,820 for Innovative Fare Collection System

MCDOT won an Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) program award from the Federal Transit Administration to develop a system that allows transit riders to use a smart phone to pay fares and use transfers.


woodmontmural2020

BUP Announces Winning Mural for 'Paint the Town' Contest at MCDOT's Woodmont Garage in Bethesda

In partnership with MCDOT, a Bethesda Urban Partnership (BUP) contest has created a new public art mural on MCDOT’s Woodmont Garage. Learn more.


bikematchsm

MCDOT's Bike Match Program Continues to Need Bike Donations

Do you have a bike you no longer use?  Bike Match MoCo is a free service that enables people with extra or unused bicycles to connect with individuals who can. If you have a bike to donate, fill out the online form at montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-dir/commuter/bikeshare/bikematch.html.


bethesdatransp

Bethesda Transportation Solutions Has Advisory Committee Vacancy

Bethesda Transportation Solutions is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the Bethesda Transportation Management District (TMD) Advisory Committee, which advises the Bethesda Urban Partnership Board of Directors and MCDOT on local transportation needs. Learn more.


rideonguides

Ride On Publishes New Safety and Service Guides in Multiple Languages

Ride On’s new COVID-19 Safety Guide is available in eight languages:

Ride On’s new User Guide is now available in five languages:


riverroadwork

SHA River Road Project Continues to Improve Safety  

Through spring 2021, drivers may encounter traffic delays on River Road (MD 190) while the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) constructs a $1.9 million roadway safety improvement project between Braeburn Parkway and Pyle Road in Bethesda. There will be temporary single-lane closures on weekdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and multiple-lane closures overnight, 9 p.m.-5 a.m. Learn More.  


icc
 

Police Step Up Traffic Safety Enforcement on ICC/MD 200

In response to community concerns about speeding and aggressive driving on the ICC/MD 200MDTA (Maryland Transportation Authority) Police arrested one driver for DUI, made 62 traffic stops and issued 112 traffic citations and warnings. If you travel on the ICC be sure to:

  • Obey posted speed limits.
  • Buckle up. Every seat. Every time.
  • Move over for emergency vehicles, tow trucks and service vehicles.
  • Devote your full attention to the road.
  • Drive sober or make a plan for a designated driver.

To report aggressive or dangerous driving on toll roads, call 410-537-7911.


marctrain

MDOT MTA to Temporarily Reduce Commuter Bus and MARC Schedules Starting Nov. 2

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) will reduce service frequency on MARC train and commuter buses. Learn more.


mdtaofficeopen

MDTA Has Reopened Six Customer Service Centers, Including in Gaithersburg

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has reopened its six E-ZPass® Customer Service Centers at limited capacity and by appointment only. Learn more.


utextupay
 

NHTSA Launches Seventh Annual U Drive - U Text - U Pay  Campaign

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is conducting an education promotion to discourage drivers texting or using their phones behind the wheel. To prevent tragedies due to distracted driving, NHTSA offers the following advice:

  • Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.
  • Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example.  Talk with your teens about responsible driving.
  • Speak up when a driver uses an electronic device behind the wheel.  Offer to make the call for the driver, so his or her full attention stays on the road.
  • Always wear your seat belt.  Seat belts are your best defense against unsafe drivers.
  • Be alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially those who may themselves be distracted.

Learn more.


pedplanshortcut

Take Shortcuts? Post Them on the Pedestrian Shortcut Map

The Montgomery Planning Department has received more than 500 contributions so far as residents indicate where they walk through the grass, dirt, or gravel to get where they’re going as quickly as possible. The Pedestrian Shortcut Map is still open for your contributions. Learn more.


safetyandhealtharticle

Safety and Health Magazine: Catch A Safe Ride 

Do you carpool to work or use a ride-hailing service? Or maybe you're a ride-share driver? To help protect you from contracting COVID-19 or spreading it to your fellow commuters, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following tips. Read the Family, Safety and Health article.


transitw/masks

CDC to Passengers and Workers: Wear a Mask When You Are On A Plane, Train, Bus, Carsharing or Other Public Transit

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  has issued new guidelines that all passengers and transit workers are to wear masks. Showing the effectiveness in curbing transmission of COVID-19. Read the Washington Post article by By Lena H. Sun, Michael Laris and Lori Aratani.


article22

The Pursuit of Happiness: How Commute Mode Affects Commute Mood

People who walk, bike or take transit to work are more satisfied with their commutes than those who drive. Read the Mobility Lab article by Dan Bowman.


gomofooter

montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot

November 3, 2020

twittermcdotnow

Follow MCDOT on Twitter at twitter.com/MCDOTNow,
subscribe to MCDOT NEWS releases and/or visit
montgomerycountymd.gov.dot.


veterans day

MCDOT Announces Holiday Schedule for Veterans Day Nov. 11

  • County offices – closed.
  • Ride On/ Ride On extRa / Flash Service – operates on a weekday schedule
  • Ride On Flex – not in operation due to health crisis.
  • Metrorail and Metrobus – visit wmata.com/service/status.
  • MARC Train and Commuter Bus – visit mta.maryland.gov.
  • TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center – open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.      
  • TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store – closed. 
  • Parking at Montgomery County public garages, lots and curbside meters - free.

drowsydriving

National Drowsy Driving Prevention Week Nov. 1-7

Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, is a good time to remember that drowsy driving is impaired driving.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about half of U.S. adult drivers admit to consistently getting behind the wheel while feeling drowsy. About 20 percent admit to falling asleep behind the wheel at some point in the past year – with more than 40 percent admitting this has happened at least once in their driving careers.

These startling figures show how prevalent drowsy driving is. What drivers may not realize is how much drowsy driving puts themselves – and others – at risk. In fact, an estimated 5,000 people died in 2015 in crashes involving drowsy driving, according to a Governors Highway Safety Association report.


garagewas

MCDOT  Parking Management Division Wraps up Garage Washing and Degreasing This Month

This week, MCDOT is completing the annual cleaning of all its 21 County-owned parking garages in Silver SpringBethesda, and Wheaton.


walkingwednesdayszeal

MCDOT Hosted “Walking Wednesdays” in October to Promote Pedestrian Safety

As part of Walktober the statewide focus on walking, walkable communities and pedestrian safety, MCDOT and team partners from the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and Montgomery County Public Schools hosted "Walking Wednesdays" at four County meal sites. Mascots Zeal and Sparky joined in greeting more than a thousand students filled with giveaways and pedestrian safety materials. 

montgomerycountymd.gov/srts


biketour

MCDOT and Department of Recreation Partner to Make Biking Safer for Kids

This fall, MCDOT and the Department of Recreation hosted free bike safety education classes for children ages eight to 11. Staff distributed 75 helmets to participants who learned the basics of bike safety, proper helmet fitting, hand signals and more.


FlashHeader3
lisawadetransit

MCDOT Employee Lisa Wade Is Excited About Driving Flash

Lisa Wade, Flash operator, shared the following: 

“I just wanted to share my enthusiasm for driving the new bus service the Flash. I want to shout out to my trainers Malik Husain and Hubbard Caster. I had two very good weeks of professional training and I enjoy operating the Flash now. I am very proud to say that I am a professional bus operator. 

Thank you to my depot chief Mr. Allan, my supervisor James De la Cruz, Don Foster and James Arias. I cannot forget the safety training crew who had confidence in me and encouraged me every step of the way, Curtis, Joe, Andre, Ms. Johnson, Malik, Brad and William. Another shout out to my route trainer Anthony Cash and my platform trainer Larry Lane thanks you guys for everything. 

I am grateful to have job during these stressful times and I can proudly say that I enjoy coming to work and being a part of a dynamic team. Gaithersburg Depot ROCKS!!!!!”

Thank you, Lisa for your enthusiasm!  Learn more about MCDOT's 'Flash' Maryland's first bus service of its kind.


bikeclasses

Adult Learn to Ride Classes a Success

MCDOT and WABA (the Washington Area Bicyclists Association) hosted two, adult Learn to Ride classes in October that sold out in one day. Look for more classes to be offered in the spring. Beginner resources are available on WABA’s website. 


birdfreeteacher

Bird e-Scooters Expand Community Pricing Program

The Community Pricing Program now offers a 50 percent discount to low income riders, including Pell grant recipients, select local nonprofit and community organizations, veterans and senior citizens. The goal is to provide an inclusive micromobility discount program to as many people as possible.

Here are the steps to sign up:

  1. Download the app at go.bird.co
  2. Create an account
  3. Email your proof of eligibility to access@bird.co

SSyieldtopeds safety

MCDOT Reminds Residents to Make Traffic Safety a Top Priority

Street Smart's fall safety initiative is urging drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians to obey the rules of the road and stay alert, especially as many are distracted due to the current health crisis. Fall and winter are a high-risk time of year for people walking and biking, and local officials are reminding residents to make safety a top priority during the coming months and view tips for drivers walkers and cyclist at ow.ly/n4ey50BGOvU.


protected-intersection

What MCDOT is Doing to Make Our Roads Safer

  • Watch this video highlighting MCDOT's and the Mid-Atlantic's first protected intersection, and the way MCDOT is making it safer to walk and bike in Downtown Silver Spring.
  • MCDOT recently completed its Countywide conversion of streetlights to LEDs that have longer lifespans and are less likely to go out compared the previous high-pressure sodium bulbs.
  • MCDOT will spend $9.72 million over the next six years for evaluating and enhancing streetlighting across the County through streetlight maintenance and adding streetlighting.
  • MCDOT and the State Highway Administration have installed 13 new traffic signals and beacons so far this year, with another 16 scheduled to be completed over the coming year.

Learn more.

ReplacingLighttoLED

bikecommute

How to Commute By Bike With Confidence

Want to start commuting by bike? Do it with confidence by reading this Bicycling.com article by Jessica Coulon.


mc311

To report down trees, sidewalk or curb damage, streetlight outage, traffic or pedestrian signal timing issues, street or traffic sign damage or foliage obstruction, pot holes or other issues call 311 or report it online at montgomerycountymd.gov/
311.


mcdotcovidupdates

For transportation updates visit MCDOT's COVID-19 website at
montgomerycountymd.gov
/DOT/covid19.html.