Go Montgomery: Go Montgomery! Montgomery County's Transportation Newsletter

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.

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 Council. Provide comments online.

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.

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.

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:

Marian Drive, from Weeping Cherry Drive to Glen Mill Road (Nov. 4, 7 p.m.)
Glen Mill Road, from Marian Drive to Darnestown Road/MD 28 (Nov. 4, 7 p.m.)
Tuckerman Lane Sidewalk/ Bike (Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m.)
Fenton Street (Nov. 18, 7 p.m.)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

Police Step Up Traffic Safety Enforcement on ICC/MD 200

In response to community concerns about speeding and aggressive driving on the ICC/MD 200, MDTA (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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot

November 3, 2020

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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.

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.

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 Spring, Bethesda, and Wheaton.

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

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.

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.

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.

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:

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

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.

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.