Thursday, September 16, 2021

MCDOT's Go Montgomery! Newsletter - Sept. 16, 2021

 

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MCDOT broke ground on the Brookville Smart Energy Bus Depot, an integrated microgrid and electric bus charging infrastructure project. The project is being completed in partnership with AlphaStruxure, a leader in Energy as a Service (EaaS) solutions and will be built and operational by mid-2022. The Smart Energy Depot will service 44 new electric buses within MCDOT’s Ride On fleet by 2023. This first of its kind project supports the sustainability and climate resilience goals of the County. Learn more here.

Watch the ceremony on MCMYMedia.com.


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MCDOT Reminds Residents to Wear a Face Covering When Taking Public Transportation Through Jan. 18

MCDOT reminds residents that Federal guidelines continue to require riders to wear face coverings for the duration of their trips when traveling by public transportation. The regulation covers MCDOT’s Ride On buses, Ride On extRa, Flex, Flash, Metrobus, Metrorail, taxis and on-demand car services. MCDOT buses supply face coverings for those riders who cannot provide their own. Learn more here

*Fares remain free through September. 


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Save Those Unneeded Bicycles for MCDOT's Annual Bike Drive on Oct.  8

MCDOT will host a bike drive on Friday, Oct. 8 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., outside the Council Office Building parking garage, at the corner of East Jefferson Street and Monroe Street in Rockville.

Donated child and adult bikes will be accepted. The drive will not accept bike parts or helmets.

It is a time of year when people start planning for fall and begin to clean out garages and storages spaces. Sometimes they find a bike that is no longer needed. MCDOT encourages residents will hang onto those bikes just a little longer and donate them at the bike drive.  

Donated bicycles will go to the Rockville Bike Hub, a nonprofit organization whose volunteers refurbish the bikes and give them to low-income residents throughout the County. The bikes are distributed through MCDOT's Bike Match MoCo program and Rockville's Terrific Kids program that awards free bikes to kids who do good deeds.

Residents may also donate financially to the program to provide bikes for residents in need. Checks can be made out to the Rockville Bike Hub during the collection event. 

For more information about the event, contact Paul Gatons of MCDOT at 240-777-7162 or paul.gatons@montgomerycountymd.gov.


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MCDOT is Hiring Bus Operators Until Oct. 13

Join our team! We are currently hiring fulltime and substitute bus operators. The position offers paid training, a positive atmosphere and a full benefits package. Anyone 21 and over with a valid license is encouraged to apply. The vacancies are located at Transit Depots located in Silver Spring, Gaithersburg and Kensington. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required prior to starting work.  Learn more here.


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Register Your School For Walk to School Day on Oct. 6

Walk to School Day registration is now open. We recognize many schools are in session in different ways, so this year you are welcome to register your participation as an entire school, a neighborhood, or a family. Register now, here.


METRO NEWS

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REMINDER: Shady Grove and Rockville Metro Stations are Closed Until Dec. 4

Free shuttle buses have replaced trains and will take riders to and from the closed stations (between Shady Grove and Twinbrook stations). Shuttle buses will pick up/drop off at: 1) Twinbrook bus bays B & C, 2) Rockville temporary stops T7 and T8, 3) Shady Grove West Kiss & Ride Lot. 

Metro's Board of Directors agreed to waive parking fees for customers at Shady Grove and Rockville stations while the two stations are closed for canopy reconstruction and repairs.  

Passengers can bypass the station closures and use the Twinbrook, White Flint, or Grosvenor-Strathmore Stations instead. 

None of MCDOT's Ride On bus routes will experience routing changes during this time, except at the Rockville station where Ride On Flex will drop off/pick up at the T2 stop. All buses on the west side have shifted to temporary stops in the Kiss and Ride Lot. Learn more here.  

WMATA Offers Discount Passes for Metrorail and Metrobus 

Starting today, Metro customers will save up to 50 percent on selected passes through Oct. 15. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is launching a sales event that will allow riders to purchase discounted passes with unlimited trips on Metrorail and Metrobus whether traveling one day, one week, or one month.

During the sale, customers may purchase the one, three and seven day passes to use anytime. Monthly passes will be valid for use October 1-31. Learn more here.


ROAD CLOSURES

Temporary Left Lane Closure for Two Days on Norbeck Road for WSSC Work in Rockville

For two days, beginning Thursday. Sept. 23, between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. WSSC will perform work on the grass median of Norbeck Road (MD28) east of the Rock Creek bridge, between Avery Road and Baltimore Road.

Temporary left lane closure is possible on the east bound lanes of Norbeck Road for the unloading of drilling equipment. 


STATE PROJECTS

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The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) has fully activated ramp meters on 23 ramps on southbound I-270 in Montgomery and Frederick counties.  The state agency said ramp metering is a part of the I-270 Innovative Congestion Management (ICM) project to help improve safety, reduce congestion and save drivers up to 30 minutes on morning commutes between Frederick and I-495 (Capital Beltway). 

This is the first system of its kind to be implemented in Maryland.  Learn more here.

I-495 Resurfacing Project Begins In Silver Spring Next Week Crews will begin to resurface I-495 between MD 97 (Georgia Avenue) and MD 185 (Connecticut Avenue) on Tuesday at 9 p.m., single or multiple lane closures are likely.

Portions of ICC/MD200 to Close for Annual Inspections; Follow Detours
The ramp from southbound US 29 to eastbound ICC/MD 200 will be closed Sept. 18 and 19, between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

The ramp from northbound US 29 to westbound ICC/MD 200 will be closed Sept. 25 and 26 between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn more here.


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For department updates, follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, visit the department website at montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot or sign up to receive the latest MCDOT news releases.

September 16. 2021


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carfeeday2021

Prizes Raffled to Montgomery County Participants Who Register for Car Free Day, Held On Wednesday, Sept. 22

Montgomery County residents are encouraged to participate in Car Free Day on Wednesday, Sept. 22. Car Free Day is a worldwide event that encourages traveling in ways that are greener than driving alone, such as walking, riding a bicycle, bus, in a carpool or teleworking.

The more people that travel using alternative modes, the fewer greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere.

Each entry will be entered into a raffle for some great prizes. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. Participants can take the pledge at ow.ly/A2S730rSQtt.


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MCDOT's Bicycle Swag Bag Contest Ends Sept. 26; Participate Today

MCDOT's Commuter Services continues to host a swag bag contest, where bike riders can submit a picture of themselves riding along a bike path or trail in Montgomery County to be entered into a weekly drawing for prizes. 

Entrants need to post their photo and tag @mococommuter on Twitter or Instagram, along with the hashtag #MoCoBikes, or email the photo to commuter.services@
montgomercountymd.gov
, to be entered into the drawing. Learn more here.  


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MCDOT Sponsors Free E-Scooter Training and Safety Classes for 18+

Participants can take a test ride, learn safety tips and get details on basic scooter laws. No registration is required to attend one of these two hour classes. Participants must have a valid driver’s license. Learn more here


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MCDOT Sponsored Adult Learn to Ride Bike Classes Start This Weekend

These classes are designed for adults aged 18 or older who have never ridden a bike before or who have not ridden for some time. Students will learn the basics of balancing, gliding, pedaling, and stopping using techniques to ride comfortably and confidently. Bicycles and bike helmets will be provided. Learn more here.


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MCDOT Participates in  Community Events This Month

Wheaton Arts Parade & Festival, Sept. 19

The festivities will take place in the new Marian Fryer Town Plaza, that is part MCDOT's Wheaton Revitalization Project on Reedie Drive in Downtown Wheaton. MCDOT's Safe Routes to School (SRTS) staff will distribute safety materials and reflective gear. Learn more at 
wheatonartsparade.org.

Due to Georgia Avenue closure, Ride On bus route 9 will detour between 4 a.m. and 7 p.m. 

30th Annual Burtonsville Day Celebration and Parade, Sept. 25

MCDOT's Safe Routes to School (SRTS) staff will join other vendors and activities after the parade at 11 a.m. to distribute safety materials and reflective gear. Learn more here

Subscribe to MCDOT's SRTS newsletter here.


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View online here.


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To report down tree limbs, clogged storm drains, potholes and more, contact the MC311 Customer Service Center, by dialing 311 or submit a request online at montgomerycounty.gov/311.


Thursday, September 2, 2021

MCDOT's Latest Go Montgomery! Transportation Newsletter is Now Available - September 2, 2021

 

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MCDOT Reminds Residents to Wear A Face Covering When Taking Public Transportation Through Jan. 18

MCDOT reminds residents that Federal guidelines continue to require riders to wear face coverings for the duration of their trips when traveling by public transportation. The regulation covers MCDOT’s Ride On buses, Ride On extRa, Flex, Flash, Metrobus, Metrorail, taxis and on-demand car services. MCDOT buses have a supply of face coverings for riders who cannot provide their own. Learn more here

*Fares remain free through September. 


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MCDOT’s Shared Streets Program Extends Until at Least Nov. 28

The Shared Streets program, first created in response to the pandemic, will be extended until at least Nov. 28.

MCDOT has managed the Shared Streets program, which allows residents and businesses to use public spaces for in-street activities such as biking, walking, outdoor dining, and retail activity. The concept aims to bring residents together in a safe outdoor environment while supporting County businesses that have struggled from the economic impacts of COVID-19. Learn more here.


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MCDOT’s Commuter Services Sponsors Popular “Learn to Ride” Adult Bike Classes

Classes are led by certified WABA instructors and designed for adults aged 18 or older who have never ridden a bike before, have tried to learn but have been unsuccessful or who have not ridden for some time. Students will learn the basics of balancing, gliding, pedaling, and stopping using techniques to ride comfortably and confidently. The cost is $10 for Montgomery County residents, and there is no fee for WABA and Capital Bikeshare for All members. Learn more here.


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MCDOT’s Wheaton Revitalization Project Wins Award

Wheaton Revitalization Project has been recognized with a Merit Award for Government Public Buildings by the Engineering News-Record (ENR) MidAtlantic. The ENR “Regional Best Projects Awards” program honored outstanding construction projects and the companies that designed and built them. 

MCDOT led the development and construction of the Wheaton Revitalization Project—one of the largest projects ever built by Montgomery County. Construction took 39 months and cost about $179 million. It was completed on time and within budget. Learn more here.


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MCDOT Encourages Residents to Participate in Bicycle Swag Bag Contest 

To build attention to the annual international “Car Free Day” that will be held on Sept. 22 and to encourage the use of alternate modes of transportation, MCDOT is hosting a “Bicycle Swag Bag Contest” that is open until Sept. 26. During the event, bike riders can submit a picture of themselves riding along a bike path or trail in Montgomery County to be entered into a weekly drawing. Learn more here.


ROAD PROJECTS AND CLOSURES

MCDOT Bridge Replacement Project Impacts Beach Drive 

Beach Drive in Kensington, between Kensington Parkway and Old Spring Road, will be closed from Aug. 30 through early June 2022 as the two-lane bridge carrying Beach Drive over Silver Creek will be replaced. Traffic will be detoured through MD 185 to MD 192 to Stoneybrook Drive and Beach Drive. Learn more here.

MCDOT White Flint Project Reopens Intersection of Executive Boulevard in Rockville

The intersection of Executive Boulevard at Old Georgetown Road has reopened with a new traffic pattern. The intersection closed this past March for construction. For more information visit the project website at whiteflintproject.com. Ride On routes 526, and 81 have resumed their normal “Executive Connector” routing patterns. 

Ramp Metering on I-270 Expected to Start Sept. 15

When ramp metering is in operation:

  • Motorists will see a warning sign with flashing beacons.
  • When the beacons are activated, motorists should be prepared to stop at the stop line.
  • Once the signal turns green, drivers may proceed on the ramp and merge onto the highway.
  • The signal will allow one car at a time to go from each lane, optimizing traffic flow onto I-270.

The ramp metering signals will have the capability to operate between 4 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily and are anticipated to be active during peak traffic hours and when congestion is present on I-270.

For more information and to view a map and ramp metering visualization video, click here.  

For a list of additional MDOT SHA projects, visit the Project Portal.

WSSC Project Closes Brookeville Road Until Sept. 6

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) has begun a sewer relocation project on Brookeville Road.

Lane Closure on Georgia Avenue Through the End of September

The right-hand lane of southbound Georgia Avenue (US 29) from Wayne Avenue to Bonifant Street is closed for repairs through the end of September for construction along the Purple Line alignment. View this and other related Purple Line closures here

Pepco Substation Construction Causes Closures and Detours on Randolph Road For 6 Months

Pepco has announced that their contractor, CW & Sons, began a six-month construction effort on the westbound lanes of Randolph Road, between Nebel Street and Parklawn Drive. The westbound lanes of Randolph Road between Nebel Street and Parklawn Drive is closed, and westbound traffic is detoured to Parklawn Drive. Eastbound lanes on Randolph Road remain open to traffic. Learn more here.


METRO NEWS

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Reminder: Metro Red Line - Shady Grove and Rockville Stations to Close for Three Months

The Rockville and Shady Grove Metro stations will close for three months from Sept. 11 through Dec. 4 to allow work crews to demolish and replace the concrete canopy at the Rockville Metro station.

To bypass the station closures, consider using the Twinbrook, White Flint, or Grosvenor-Strathmore Stations instead.

Free shuttle bus service will be available to connect the closed stations and Twinbrook Station.

Buses on the west side of the Rockville Station have relocated to temporary stops and MCDOT’s Ride On Flex is picking up and dropping off at the T2 stop. Directional signs are posted outside the stations.

Sign up for email updates on travel impacts here. View travel alternatives here.

Metro Changes Coming Sept. 5

For an update on discounts and changes to Metrobus and Metrorail click here.

Metro Faregate Replacement Project Underway With New and Improved Faregates Fully Installed in Two Stations

Learn more here.


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For department updates, follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, visit the department website at montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot or sign up to receive the latest MCDOT news releases.

September 2, 2021


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MCDOT's Holiday Schedule for Labor Day, Sept. 6 

View more schedule changes here.


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MCDOT crews were busy with road closures and flooding from Hurricane Ida. Be sure to watch out for flooded roadways. 

  • Watch out for overhead hazards such as broken tree limbs, wires and other debris.
  • 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, contain downed power lines or animals.
  • Use care around downed power lines. Assume a downed wire is a live wire.

Learn more about flooding here.


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MCDOT Offers Free E-Scooter Classes

Take a test ride, learn safety tips, and scooter laws.  Must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license. Learn more here.


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MCDOT’s Safe Routes to School Program Encourages Parents to Organize “Walking School Bus”

With the return to in-person instruction, MCDOT’s Safe Routes to Schools program encourages parents to organize a “Walking School Bus” to enable young students to safely walk to their school. Each “bus” walks along a set route, with one or more adults leading the group of children. It's a safe and fun way to walk to and from school with adult supervision. Learn more here.

View these back to school safety tips.

Work with your school’s SRTS program on walking and biking education, promotion, and identifying safe ways to get to school here.


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School is in Session – Stay Alert, Stay Safe!

Be sure to always stop for school buses when their lights are flashing red and their stop arms are extended. 

Did You Know?  
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 school children.  Negligent drivers will receive a civil citation and fine.


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Maryland Transit Launches CharmFlex Fare Option for Commuters


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Need a Push to Ditch the Car? Green Commuting Incentives Abound


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To report down tree limbs, clogged storm drains, flooding, potholes, sidewalk damage and more, contact the MC311 Customer Service Center, by dialing 311 or submit a request online at  montgomerycounty.gov/311.