Montgomery Parks has been awarded a $900,000 grant from the Federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) to design the extension of the Magruder Branch Trail into downtown Damascus.
Per Montgomery Parks: The Magruder Branch Trail is a multi-use trail with 4.2 miles of asphalt and boardwalk and 3.3 miles of natural surface. The grant funding will be used to design a one-mile trail extension and replacements for sections of the existing boardwalk needing repair.
“Trails are one of our most popular park amenities and this extension will support better recreational access and add a valuable connection to our network,” said Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks. “We are so grateful for this federal grant funding to improve this beautiful trail along the Magruder Branch stream valley.”
“The community has long sought this important trail connection. I’m grateful to the residents, local civic leaders, and Montgomery Parks for their persistence and for never giving up on this project,” said Dawn Luedtke, Montgomery County Councilmember, District 7. “The Magruder Branch Trail extension will provide a safe route between recreational amenities and the center of Damascus, improving quality of life and supporting businesses in this incredible community.”
“I have seen the popularity of the Magruder Branch Trail among our up-county residents,” said Gabe Albornoz, Montgomery County councilmember, at-large. “I am excited to see progress in completing the original vision and providing a beautiful, safer connection between Main Street, Damascus, our residential neighborhoods, and recreational opportunities.”
The one-mile trail extension will run from the trail’s northern terminus at Valley Park Drive and continue to the Damascus Town Center. The project also includes designs for replacing 2,800 linear feet of deteriorating boardwalk. Montgomery Parks boasts more than 260 miles of paved and natural surface trails throughout the county. Photo courtesy Montgomery Parks