May 29, 2024

Open Houses on Veirs Mill Road Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project to be Held on June 4 and June 5

Open Houses on Veirs Mill Road Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project to be Held on June 4 and June 5

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will hold two open houses to explain details, and seek input, on the planned Veirs Mill Road Flash Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project. The meeting on Tuesday, June 4, will be held in Silver Spring The meeting on Wednesday, June 5, will be virtual.

The Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT will be a seven-mile, limited-stop, branded bus service with 12 stations planned along Veirs Mill Road and MD 355. The project is geared toward enhancing mobility, connectivity and accessibility along the Veirs Mill Road corridor. By implementing a rapid bus transit system, the project seeks to enhance transportation options, reduce travel times and create a more efficient and sustainable transit network. The project team is committed to engaging with the community and incorporating public input to ensure that the final design meets the needs and preferences of residents, commuters and businesses in the area.

The meeting from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on June 4 will be held at Newport Mill Middle School, which is located at 11311 Newport Mill Rd. in Silver Spring. At that meeting, residents can review informational display boards, explore mapping resources and interact with knowledgeable staff members.

The virtual meeting from 7-8 p.m. on June 5 will be conducted virtually via Zoom. It will have a concise presentation followed by interactive breakout rooms, allowing residents to engage with knowledgeable staff members.

The Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT stretches from the Wheaton Metrorail Station to the Montgomery College—Rockville campus. The project will enhance bus services and prioritizes pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. This will include the implementation of new side paths, sidewalks, intersection signals, signing, pavement marking and lighting systems, all aimed at bolstering connectivity and safety for all road users.

The upcoming open houses will offer an opportunity for community members to learn more about the project and its current status, engage with project leaders and experts and provide valuable input that will help shape the future of transportation in the region. Information presented at the open house will include details about the proposed roadway and traffic signal modifications, transit service using articulated BRT vehicles, BRT stations with level boarding and off-board fare collection and pedestrian/bike safety improvements. Participants will have the chance to ask questions, share concerns and offer suggestions.

"We are excited to engage with the community and gather their input on the Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT project," said Zouli Bereddad, the project manager. "Public feedback is crucial in helping us design a transit system that meets the needs of residents, improves connectivity and enhances overall quality of life. We encourage everyone to participate in an open house and be a part of this important conversation."

The Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT project represents a significant investment in the future of transportation infrastructure, with the potential to deliver lasting benefits to the community and beyond. By prioritizing sustainable and efficient transit solutions, the project aligns with broader efforts to address congestion, reduce emissions, and create more vibrant, livable communities.

To learn more about the Veirs Mill Road Flash BRT project and to stay updated on future developments, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/VMRFlash.

Spanish and Chinese translators will be available. For project inquiries, contact Mr. Bereddad at Zouli.Bereddad@montgomerycountymd.gov.