Speech and Testimony
County Executive Leggett’s Remarks at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Pop-Up Grand Opening
Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Station 10300 Rockville Pike, Rockville
As prepared
Good afternoon! I am happy to be with you today as we cut the ribbon to open the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Pop-Up.
I want to congratulate WMATA, Five-squares and Strathmore for collaborating on this pioneering development – the brainchild of Five-Squares’ Ron Kaplan – to combine transit and the arts to create a sense of space and community where none exists today.
This pilot program is emblematic of innovative thinking.
At Five-squares’ request, WMATA agreed to try a pilot program, bringing pop-up retail to the area just outside of the station’s entrance.
Beginning today and every Wednesday through Friday afternoon from here on out, people will be able to purchase items that may include baked goods; other prepared foods; frozen yogurt; and fresh produce from local vendors occupying six pop-up structures.
This novel idea fit perfectly into WMATA’s goal to make the entrances and exits more pleasant and engaging.
WMATA donated a retired rail car that Five-squares converted into various pieces that have been incorporated into this pop-up area. Metalworking artists dismantled the car into pieces so they could be reused in a creative manner to support the pop-up structure; and seats from the car will be adapted for use as outdoor seating.
This will not only benefit the surrounding community; it will also make the Metro rider experience that much more enjoyable.
I want to thank all of you for attending today. Enjoy the opening of this wonderfully promethean area!
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Release ID: 17-056May 17; 3 p.m.