This project is advancing the planning, design, and implementation of the Great Seneca Transit Network (GSTN). The GSTN is a four route network intended to provide improved transit connections to and around the Life Sciences Center. There are two phases of this overall network; Phase 1 includes implementation of the Pink and Lime routes. Phase 2 includes 2 additional routes (Cobalt and Gray). The project includes new, upgraded transit stations, dedicated bus and bus + bike lanes, transit signal priority, upgrades to transit centers, as well as pedestrian and bicycle improvements. These transit services will provide frequent and reliable connections between Kentlands, Crown Farm, King Farm, the Universities at Shady Grove, Adventist Shady Grove Hospital, Shady Grove Metro Station, Rockville, and other key destinations in support of the Great Seneca Science Corridor Master Plan.

Planning was completed in FY21 in the Bus Rapid Transit: Development CIP project. Preliminary design began in FY22 for Phase 1. Construction of improvements for the Pink line linking Shady Grove Metro Station to the Life Science Center near Shady Grove Hospital and the Lime line using I-370 from Shady Grove Metro Station to Rio, Crown Farm and the heart of the Life Science Center was completed in FY24.

The continued delay of the Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT) has limited the ability for land use plans in the Great Seneca Science Corridor area to be realized. While the CCT is still identified as the long-term transit priority for this area, a vision for enhanced transit improvements has been identified for quicker implementation to help the County achieve its non-auto-driver mode share (NADMS) goals.

FY23 Impact Tax funding will be available pending a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cities of Gaithersburg and Rockville. State aid in FY23 reflects State grants for capital projects in Montgomery County programmed or preauthorized during the 2022 Maryland General Assembly session and will support the acquisition of 13 buses needed to operate this service.

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 Gaithersburg, and City of Rockville.