For Immediate Release: Friday, June 12, 2020
“I am pleased to see this important transportation project finally completed,” said County Executive Elrich. “This long-awaited and much-needed interchange will help support our plans to enhance economic development and provide traffic relief in the northern portion of the County. In addition, the bridge will provide bicycle and pedestrian access from one side of I-270 to the other.
“The I-270 Technology Corridor is an important component of our economic development plans to support dozens of thriving businesses that are industry leaders in biotechnology. It is a step toward addressing our evolving transportation needs, but more importantly, it symbolizes a bridge from our past to our future. I want to thank the Maryland Department of Transportation and the City of Gaithersburg for being great partners on this project to create a transportation solution that improves the quality of life for our residents.”
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan said the project will have an impact in many ways.
“This interchange has tremendous economic benefits for the region and improves access to the Metropolitan Grove MARC Station,” said Governor Hogan. “The men and women of MDOT SHA have delivered a critical link in this employment corridor that will advance our economic recovery as we continue to reopen Maryland.”
The interchange is part of a long-term plan that envisioned Watkins Mill Road as a vital east-west transportation link. An innovative public-private partnership between the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT), MDOT SHA, the City of Gaithersburg and BP Realty Investments led to an agreement to create the link with contributions from each partner including:
MCDOT
MDOT SHA
BP Realty Investments
City of Gaithersburg
The Watkins Mill Interchange project supports economic development and congestion relief not only along I-270, but also MD 124 and MD 355 (Frederick Road). Previously, drivers on either side of I-270 were required to use MD 117 (Clopper Road), MD 355 or MD 124 to reach the opposite side.
The new interchange provides better links to both sides of Gaithersburg, the Gaithersburg Medical Center, the Metropolitan Grove MARC Station, the Montgomery County Police Department, homes, services and businesses. The project includes access for bicycles and pedestrians.
The project also will aim to better regulate traffic flow onto I-270 with three new ramp signals. Montgomery County worked with MDOT SHA to activate the signals.
# # #
Put the “count” in Montgomery County! Be sure to complete the Census online, by phone, or by mail. It’s safe, confidential, easy, and important. #2020Census #EveryoneCountsMCMD