Introduction

The Midcounty Highway (M-83) has been debated in Montgomery County, Maryland for decades. While significant concerns about its environmental impact exist, there are also compelling arguments in favor of its construction. This blog post explores why M-83 should be built, highlighting the potential benefits for traffic congestion relief, economic development, connectivity, safety, and long-term planning.  All one needs to do is drive north or south on 270 during rush hour, and you will see the interchanges for Gaithersburg, Germantown, and Clarksburg bogged down with traffic trying to get to these communities.

Traffic Congestion Relief

One of the primary arguments for building M-83 is its potential to alleviate traffic congestion. Montgomery County’s population has grown significantly, increasing traffic on major roads like Route 355 and I-270. M-83 would provide a direct north-south route, reducing the burden on these congested roads and improving overall traffic flow. This could lead to shorter commute times and less frustration for drivers. Do you remember the sinkhole on Interstate 270?  Maryland State Highway Administration estimated it would take several weeks to fix the around-the-clock lane closures before it could be fixed.

Economic Development

The construction of M-83 could spur economic growth in the region. Improved transportation infrastructure attracts businesses, leading to job creation and economic development. By providing better access to commercial areas, M-83 could help stimulate local economies and support the county’s economic vitality. This is particularly important for regions like Clarksburg and Germantown, which are poised for growth.  Many Upper Montgomery County residents must commute to jobs in Washington, DC, Bethesda, Silver Spring, or Northern Virginia for work because of limited job opportunities in Upper Montgomery County. The Comsat/Lockheed Martin offices in Clarksburg sit empty because Lockheed Martin moved to Bethesda.  Orbital Sciences moved their offices from Germantown to Northern Virginia.  One of the arguments about the FDA relocating to a new headquarters in Clarksburg was the lack of transportation infrastructure.

Improved Connectivity

M-83 would enhance connectivity between various parts of Montgomery County. Clarksburg, Germantown, and Gaithersburg residents would benefit from a more efficient route, making it easier to access amenities, schools, and healthcare facilities. Improved connectivity can also foster a sense of community and make it easier for residents to engage in local activities.  The major entertainment venues are in Silver Spring, Bethesda, Rockville, and Gaithersburg.  The only county ice rinks in Montgomery County exist in the “Down County” locations of Wheaton and Bethesda.

Safety Improvements

Proponents of M-83 argue that the highway could improve road safety. By diverting traffic from smaller, less capable roads, M-83 could reduce the number of accidents and create a safer driving environment. Well-designed highways with proper safety features can significantly lower the risk of collisions and enhance overall road safety.  In the studies I’ve reviewed thus far, I can’t find where Montgomery Planning did a study on how M-83 would impact Emergency Services.  Would response times improve for UpCounty Emergencies?  Would it provide faster access to trauma centers and hospitals in the area? 

Long-Term Planning

As Montgomery County grows, the demand for efficient transportation infrastructure will only increase. Building M-83 is necessary for long-term planning to accommodate future population growth. By investing in infrastructure, the county can better prepare for its residents’ transportation needs in the coming decades. 

The Montgomery County Council is currently reviewing attainable housing.  Attainable housing would allow “… a set of zoning modifications that would allow for structures such as duplexes, triplexes, townhouses, small apartment buildings, and other types of Middle housing to be built within single-family zoned areas in the county”, according to the Montgomery Planning Attainable Housing Strategies initiative website.  This could have an impact on the already congested arteries in UpCounty. 

Conclusion

While the environmental and community concerns surrounding M-83 are valid, the potential benefits of reduced congestion, economic development, improved connectivity, safety, and long-term planning make a strong case for its construction. The debate over M-83 highlights the complex balance between growth and sustainability that many growing communities face.