The City of Gaithersburg has secured $1 million in federal funding to support pedestrian safety improvements in Olde Towne, with a focus on making streets safer for students and residents.
The funding, awarded through Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending, was included in a federal spending package recently passed by Congress and signed into law. City officials say the investment will accelerate planned upgrades aimed at improving walkability and reducing traffic-related risks.
Improvements will include new and enhanced crosswalks, traffic-calming measures, and safety upgrades at key intersections. New sidewalks are also planned along several residential streets in the Deer Park neighborhood. The project will prioritize areas surrounding Gaithersburg Elementary, Middle, and High Schools, where pedestrian traffic is especially high.
Mayor Jud Ashman called the funding a significant step forward for the community.“Pedestrian safety is a top priority, and this funding will allow us to accelerate improvements that make our streets safer for everyone,” Ashman said, thanking federal partners for their support.
Federal officials also highlighted the broader impact of the investment, noting that safer infrastructure benefits not only pedestrians, but also drivers, cyclists, and the overall community.The project is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to create a more connected and walkable Olde Towne, while improving safety for residents, students, and visitors alike.
