This project provides for the review and analysis of existing physical structures and traffic controls in order to make modifications aimed at improving safety and infrastructure for pedestrians and bicycles. This project provides for the construction of physical structures and/or installation of traffic control devices which include, but are not limited to: new crosswalks; High-Intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) signals; pedestrian refuge islands; sidewalks; bus pull-off areas; fencing to channel pedestrians to safer crossing locations; bicycle signings and markings; relocating, adding, or eliminating bus stops; accessible pedestrian signals (countdown) or warning beacons; improving signage, etc. The improvements will be made in compliance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This project is data driven and supports the construction of improvements at and around schools identified in the Safe Routes to School program. The project also includes performing pedestrian safety audits at High Incidence Areas and implementing identified physical improvements, education and outreach.

Cost increase due to the addition of FY27 and FY28 to this ongoing project, as well $500,000 in FY23, $1,000,000 in FY24 and $600,000 FY25-FY28 for the Safe Routes to School program, and $720,000 in FY23 for the addition of a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant to add protected pedestrian crossings using pedestrian hybrid beacons. (The 10 percent grant match requirement will be met with existing funds.)

Montgomery County's history of pedestrian and bicyclist safety includes the 2002 Blue Ribbon Panel, 2007 Pedestrian Safety Initiative, and most recently the 2017 Vision Zero Two-Year Action Plan. This project seeks to improve the walkability along Montgomery County roadways and, in particular, in the Central Business Districts (CBD) where there is a high concentration of pedestrians and mass transit ridership. The improvements proposed under this project will enhance and/or add to the County's existing infrastructure to increase the safety and comfort level for pedestrians, which in turn will encourage pedestrian activity and safer access to schools and mass transit. This project is intended to support the strategies for enhancing pedestrian safety by piloting new and innovative techniques for improving traffic control device compliance by pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Various studies for improvements will be done under this project with an emphasis on pedestrian safety and traffic circulation. Safe Routes to Schools walkability audits for Montgomery County schools are completed through this program, and studies identify needs and prioritize schools based on the need for signage, pavement markings, circulation, and pedestrian accessibility.

This project is intended to address the Engineering aspect of the Three E's concept (Engineering, Education, and Enforcement), which is one of the recommendations included in the final Blue Ribbon Panel on Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Report. Additional efforts to improve pedestrian walkability by creating a safer walking environment, utilizing selected technologies, and ensuring ADA compliance will be addressed under the following projects: Annual Sidewalk Program; Bus Stop Improvements; Intersection and Spot Improvements; Neighborhood Traffic Calming; Transportation Improvements for Schools; ADA Compliance; Transportation; Resurfacing; Primary/Arterial; Sidewalk and Infrastructure Revitalization; Streetlighting; Traffic Signals; and Advanced Transportation Management System. This project will help the County achieve its Vision Zero goals to reduce deaths and serious injuries on County roadways to zero by 2030.

A pedestrian impact analysis will be performed during design or is in progress. Expenditures will continue indefinitely. The County Executive asserts that this project conforms to the requirement of relevant local plans, as required by the Maryland Economic Growth, Resource Protection and Planning Act.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Mass Transit Administration, Maryland State Highway Administration, Wheaton Central Business District, Wheaton Regional Services Center, Commission on Aging, Commission on People with Disabilities , Montgomery County Pedestrian Safety Advisory Committee, and Citizen's Advisory Boards, and various CIP Projects.