Montgomery County Council Recommends New Growth Corridor Boulevard Design for Transit Planning

During a recent Montgomery County government meeting, officials discussed significant updates to the county's transportation planning, particularly focusing on the development of new tools for the Complete Streets Design Guide. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and accessibility of growth corridors, which are key areas designated for future land use and public infrastructure improvements.

The proposed changes include the introduction of a new street type called the Growth Quarter Boulevard. This design is tailored for areas expected to experience moderate to high density, with the goal of improving pedestrian and bicycle safety. Key features of this new street type include a reduction in target vehicle speeds from 35 to 30 miles per hour and closer protected crossing spacings of 600 feet. These adjustments are intended to encourage walking and biking while reducing the likelihood of unsafe street crossings.

Currently, many of the county's growth corridors are classified as boulevards, which often require pedestrians to walk significant distances—up to three minutes—to reach safe crossing points. The new Growth Quarter Boulevard design aims to address these concerns by providing more frequent protected crossings, making it easier for residents to navigate these busy areas safely.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the importance of aligning transit master plan recommendations with ongoing transportation projects. Officials emphasized the need for consistency in planning to ensure that future developments can effectively support public transit initiatives, such as bus rapid transit services.

These discussions reflect Montgomery County's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents by enhancing transportation infrastructure and promoting safer, more accessible streets. As the council moves forward with these plans, the community can expect to see a more pedestrian-friendly environment that accommodates growth while prioritizing safety and mobility.