Subject
title
Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Real Estate Permit with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to Install Window Decals on the Pedestrian Bridge Over MD-355
end
Department
PW - Management & Support
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Mayor and Council authorize the City Manager to execute a Real Estate Permit (Attachment 1) between the Mayor and Council of Rockville and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to install window decals on the pedestrian bridge over MD-355.
Discussion
The City seeks to enhance the pedestrian bridge over MD-355 connecting the Rockville Metro Station to Promenade Park with vinyl window decals installed on the outside of the bridge. The window decals will spell “ROCKVILLE TOWN CENTER” and include the new Rockville logo in the center prominently displayed over the travel lanes of both northbound and southbound Rockville Pike (see Attachment 2). The letters will be installed by city staff, using a city-owned bucket truck. As the bridge is owned by WMATA, the City must obtain a real estate permit to install the decals. WMATA agreed to issue the permit for no fee through April 30, 2028, with an option to extend the term through mutual agreement. The City is solely responsible for the cost to install, maintain, clean, repair and remove the window decals. The work will be performed in two phases. The first phase, planned for the week of May 19, 2025, includes a pilot installation of two letters, one reflective letter, and one non-reflective letter to allow staff and WMATA to determine the suitability of the materials. Upon final selection of materials, the city will procure the materials and schedule the installation of the remaining letters. Final installation is planned for summer 2025.
Mayor and Council History
On May 6, 2024, the Mayor and Council directed staff to engage with WMATA to install signage on the pedestrian bridge over MD-355 promoting Rockville Town Center.
Next Steps
If approved by the Mayor and Council, the City Manager will execute the attached real estate permit. The City can then procure the materials and install the letters on the bridge.