Montgomery Parks has been awarded a $1.6 million direct federal investment to rehabilitate the hard surface trail in Northwest Branch Stream Valley Unit 3.
The funding, requested and secured by U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman Jamie Raskin (all D-Md.), will be used to rehabilitate the existing 2.7 miles of paved trail in Montgomery County and pave a gravel connector from Oakview Drive. The trail continues into Prince George’s County and connects to the Anacostia River Tributary Trails network. Other improvements as part of the project include upgrades to trail bridges and culverts and adding wayfinding information, and safety signage.
“Bike and pedestrian trails help connect our communities – especially when they are built close to public transit – and support more transportation options for Marylanders. These options in turn promote both a healthier environment and healthier communities. With these federal funds, we’re strengthening pathways to better link Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties for all who use them to commute or enjoy the outdoors,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
“I want to thank Senator Van Hollen, the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Congressman Raskin for this generous grant,” said Montgomery Parks Director Miti Figueredo. “Rehabilitating and upgrading this very popular trail will improve recreational opportunities in the area and support bicycling, walking, and access to transit – which reduces dependence on cars and is better for health and the environment.”
The project is expected to begin construction in 2026 and take approximately 15 months to complete. The completion of the project will support pedestrian and bicycle connectivity to the Purple Line light rail, which expands transportation access for traditionally underserved populations in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.
The Northwest Branch Trail is one of the oldest trails in Montgomery Parks’ network of trails. It comprises eight miles of natural surface trail and 2.7 miles of paved trail and continues into Prince George’s County. Thousands of people use the trail every year for hiking, biking, walking, and jogging.
Courtesy of Montgomery Parks