Van Hollen and Leggett Announce Federal Grant To Improve Pedestrian Access to Wheaton Metrorail

Press Release

The Wheaton Redevelopment Program was recently awarded $417,039 from the Maryland Transportation Administration SAFETEA-LU (Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: a Legacy for Users) Transportation Grant. The funding, along with a 20 percent match from County funds, will be used to improve the major pedestrian route that directly leads to the Wheaton Metrorail entrance.

"Improving pedestrian access in the heart of Wheaton is an essential component of Wheaton's resurgence as a community where people from all cultures and areas come together to work, shop, worship and play," said Montgomery Executive Isiah Leggett.

"I'd like to thank Congressman Van Hollen for his efforts to secure the federal support needed for continued redevelopment that will further enhance this community's vibrancy."

Congressman Chris Van Hollen sponsored the initial SAFETEA-LU bill and recommended Wheaton as a recipient for this grant.

"This funding is great news for the Wheaton community," said Van Hollen. "This federal investment will help keep our community on the move and provide safer commutes for our residents."

"I applaud Congressman Van Hollen and County Executive Leggett for investing in an important project that will improve access to the Metro system," said Maryland Transporation Secretary John D. Porcari. "Upgrading transit service and improving pedestrian safety statewide are two key priorities of the O'Malley-Brown administration. This Wheaton project accomplishes both."

The project will provide better Metro access for residents in the area, remove safety and access impediments to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act,, widen 800 feet of sidewalk and construct a planting panel along the east side of Fern Street between University Boulevard and Reedie Drive. Fern Street provides direct access to the Wheaton Metrorail Station entrance at a mixed-use project over the Metro Kiss and Ride lot.

Construction on the project is expected to begin later this year.

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