This project will design and construct a new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line on MD355 between Clarkburg and Bethesda. Planning conducted by the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) resulted in several Alternatives Retained for Detailed Study in 2017. In 2019, MCDOT completed the planning phase. The project includes dedicated BRT lanes, new BRT stations with level boarding and off-board payment, Transit Signal Priority, purchase of new 60-foot articulated vehicles, and other associated pedestrian and bicycle improvements along the corridor.

Project planning was completed in FY19. Preliminary engineering began in FY20 and will be completed in FY23. Final design for select segments will immediately follow and will be completed in FY24.

State Aid added to accelerate design efforts.

The project will transform mobility options with the implementation of a 22-mile, premium, branded, limited-stop BRT service along MD355 between Clarksburg and Bethesda. This new service will improve transit travel time and increase opportunity for a broad range of users along a highly congested corridor. The project will improve passenger transit mobility by connecting riders to high density housing and employment centers.

This project was created as a supplemental in FY20 for $3 million.

Programming of funds through final design of select segments improves the project's eligibility for earlier entry into the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grant program. Final design funded with GO Bonds in FY24. State Aid added for $6.0 million in FY22 ($3.5 million) and FY23 ($2.5 million) to accelerate implementation.

A pedestrian impact analysis will be performed during design or is in progress. 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.

Maryland Department of Transportation, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, City of Rockville, City of Gaithersburg