The Midcounty Highway (M-83) has been a part of Montgomery County’s transportation plans since the 1960s. Initially proposed as an 8.7-mile controlled-access highway, M-83 was designed to connect Ridge Road (MD 27) in Clarksburg to Redland Road in Derwood. Over the years, parts of the highway have been constructed, including a three-mile segment between Shady Grove Road and Montgomery Village Avenue and a two-lane section from Middlebrook Road to Grassy Knoll Terrace.

Pros: Proponents of M-83 argue that the highway would improve transportation infrastructure, reduce traffic congestion, and provide better connectivity between Clarksburg and Gaithersburg. They believe the highway would facilitate economic growth and development in the region.

Cons: Opponents argue that the highway is an outdated solution to traffic problems and that alternative transportation options should be pursued, such as bus rapid transit and expanded Ride-On services. They also point out that the highway would be costly, with an estimated price tag of $1.3 billion, and would cut through parkland and drinking water sources.

The history of M-83 reflects the ongoing balancing act between infrastructure development and environmental preservation, highlighting the complexities of urban planning in growing communities. My first The UpCounty Citizen In-Depth series will be about Montgomery County Highway M-83. I will blog about its history, environmental concerns, pros and cons, and more.