​Proposed Design Improvements 

(July 5, 2023) – The Maryland State Highway Administration will host a virtual public meeting 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, to present the proposed design improvements for safety and accessibility on MD 97 in the Montgomery Hills community of Montgomery County. The project extends south of MD 390 (16th Street) to MD 192 (Forest Glen Road), including the interchange with the Capital Beltway (I-495) near the Forest Glen Metro Station.

The meeting will include an update on design concepts for the project, with an opportunity for public input. The proposed design concepts include narrowing lanes, constructing new pedestrian and bicycle facilities, installing a new traffic signal, constructing a raised median and dedicated left-turn lane, addressing landscaping and drainage, and other improvements. The concept design has the goal of improving safety and accessibility while balancing mobility needs.

“We are committed to delivering safety and accessibility improvements to provide better transportation connections for all users and all communities,” said State Highway Administrator Tim Smith. “By working with our partners in Montgomery County, we will continue to deliver improvements on some of the county’s top safety priorities.”

The design is approximately 70% complete, and the project is expected to start after utility relocation in spring 2028. Details are available on the project portal page here.

The public is invited to attend the July 12 meeting using Microsoft Teams Live. The link to the meeting is available on the project portal page. Submitting questions and comments in advance of the virtual meeting is encouraged. Attendees also may send questions or comments through the Microsoft Teams Q&A feature during the meeting. 

Those unable to join the meeting by Microsoft Teams may call in at 1-443-409-5228, Conference ID: 775 771 385#. Those calling in will be able to hear the presenters and discussion but will be unable to see the presentation. Attendees can use the meeting link on the project portal page to view all meeting materials. 

Those requiring assistance to participate in the virtual public meeting, such as those desiring an interpreter for hearing/speech difficulties or assistance with the English language, should send an email in advance to SHATitleVI@MDOTmaryland.gov​. Please indicate desired language in the subject line. The Maryland Relay Service can assist teletype users at 7-1-1.​