In April, a traffic light was installed at the intersection of Watkins Mill Rd. and Russell Ave. in Gaithersburg. After a period of time where the lights remained covered and a brief period of time consisting of a flashing red lights, the traffic lights are now fully operational.
According to City of Gaithersburg, the intersection of Russell Avenue and Watkins Mill Road is a “T” intersection and was previously stop controlled on the Russell Avenue approach and free flow on the eastbound and westbound movements of Watkins Mill Road.
Based on safety concerns including input from area residents, the City of Gaithersburg had a traffic engineering consultant perform an evaluation of the intersection in 2022, which determined that a traffic signal was warranted and recommended. The project was approved for inclusion into the City’s Capital Improvement Program, with design completed in FY 24 and construction scheduled for FY25.
The City of Gaithersburg stated in a planning meeting that the new traffic signal will improve safety with increased lighting levels, pedestrian signals, new striping improvements, and pedestrian countdown signals. The improvements are designed to meet all applicable American with Disabilities Act requirements, including all new pedestrian facilities and sidewalk ramps.