A recent video from the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) provides an update on Montgomery County's planned Bus Rapid Transit network, Flash.
Flash BRT is Montgomery County’s branded Bus Rapid Transit network. With more than 100 stops along a total of eight routes, Flash BRT will offer high-frequency service to get people to their destination faster and less expensively than by car. The first Flash corridor opened in 2020 and currently operates on U.S. 29 (Colesville Road/Old Columbia Pike). The US 29 Flash has 12 stops and operates between Downtown Silver Spring and Briggs Chaney and extends to Burtonsville during weekday rush hours. The US 29 Flash has been a popular option, ranking as one of the County's highest ridership routes.
Flash is easy to use since it travels up and down a single main street. It is designed to arrive every few minutes, has upgraded amenities, pre-boarding payment, priority traffic light signaling, and travels along dedicated bus lanes where possible. Flash also offers amenities such as level boarding for wheelchairs, strollers and bikes, easy-to-use bike racks, and free Wi-Fi and USB charging. Much like light rail, Flash buses stop at each of the state-of-the-art stations so there is no need to pull a chord.
Public transportation plays an important role in the daily lives of Montgomery County residents and visitors, providing access to work, schools, shopping, health care services and more. Flash service fosters equitable communities by providing reliable mobility. It also boosts the local economy, provides sustainable transportation options, and supports a healthier, hassle-free lifestyle.
The County plans to expand the Flash network throughout the community with seven additional corridors and an extension of the US 29 Flash to Howard County next year. The Veirs Mill Flash project will be the next full corridor to be built out with construction starting later this year.
The 355 (Rockville Pike) and North Bethesda corridors will follow soon after. Please see the detailed updates on upcoming Flash BRT corridors below and keep an eye out for Flash project engagement opportunities.
