Subject
title
Authorization for the City Manager to Execute the Federal-Aid Project Guidelines and Working Supplement Agreement with the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration for the Research Boulevard Shared Use Path Feasibility and Design project Under the Carbon Reduction Program
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Department
PW - Traffic & Transportation
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Mayor and Council authorize the City Manager to execute the supplement agreement (Attachment 1) with the Maryland Department of Transportation State Administration for the Research Boulevard Shared-Use Path Feasibility and Design project, under the Carbon Reduction Program.
Discussion
The Research Boulevard Shared-Use Path Feasibility and Design project will evaluate the proposed alignment for shared-use path along the full extent of Research Boulevard between W. Montgomery Avenue (MD 28) to Shady Grove Road. This project will also include preparation of the 65% design plan for a feasible alignment of the shared-use path. The deliverables of the project will include public engagement and outreach, a 65% design plan, and construction cost estimates, which will be used by city staff to coordinate funding, complete the final design, and ultimately construct the shared-use path.
The project was included in the Approved 2023 Pedestrian Master Plan and expands upon recommendations included in the 2017 Bicycle Master Plan. Moreover, this project is consistent with the City’s goals for achieving Vision Zero; designated and separated pedestrian and bicycle facilities are shown to be safer and more comfortable for vulnerable roadway users.
This route provides a valuable connection between the Friendship Bridge, the Carl Henn Millennium Trail, and Montgomery County’s planned shared use path along Shady Grove Road. It is also expected to be well used by the existing office, medical office, and planned residential uses along Research Boulevard. The shared-use path will also include improving pedestrian crossings, bus stops and access to transit along Research Boulevard.
Mayor and Council History
This is the first time the Research Boulevard Shared-Use Path Feasibility and Design project has been brough to the Mayor and Council.
Fiscal Impact
This project is funded through the Carbon Reduction Program, which is administered by the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration. The total cost of the project is expected to be $300,000, composed of $240,000 grant funds and $60,000 local match.
This project is referenced in the FY 26 Capital Improvement Program under TD26, Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety: FY 26 - FY 30 (Attachment 2). Once the grant agreement is fully executed, TD26 will be amended to include the additional grant funding of $240,000.
Next Steps
Once the Mayor and Council authorize the City Manager and the supplemental agreement is executed, city staff will submit the signed agreement to the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration. Once it is fully executed, city staff will prepare a request for proposal to find a qualified consultant to carry out the project.