Statement from Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich on the I-495 Decision

Statement from Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich on the I-495 Decision

For Immediate Release: Wednesday 12 May

From my first day as County Executive, I have asked the Governor to take a different approach toward his plans for I-270 and Beltway expansion. I am pleased that today’s announcement changes the Recommended Preferred Alternative to “No Action” for I-495 east of Old Georgetown Road.

This change eliminates residential and commercial displacements and will be very welcome news by thousands of our concerned residents and businesses that would have been impacted. I want to thank Governor Hogan and the Maryland Department of Transportation for changing direction on this part of the project and we look forward to working with them on moving forward on a better plan to alleviate traffic and protect our environment.

Regarding the ongoing plans for Phase 1 for the American Legion bridge, I-270 and 495 west of Old Georgetown Road, I urge the State to seriously consider two reversible lanes on I-270 that flow in the direction of morning and evening rush hours. Additionally, because the plan currently stops at I-370, I am concerned that the plan will change the location of the bottlenecks rather than alleviating them. If the plan does not simultaneously address transportation up to Frederick, it will create a traffic nightmare for Montgomery County, regional, and pass-through travelers on I-270 and the Beltway. Also, because of the last 14 months of the pandemic, there is a possibility that commuting patterns will change permanently due to increased telecommuting; those issues need to be considered in the plans.

I continue to have concerns that this project is a Public-Private Partnership, which, as currently structured, has the potential to be unnecessarily expensive. I believe that this infrastructure would produce a greater return on investment for the taxpayers if it were delivered without the burden of having to generate profits for outside investors. Given the willingness of the Biden Administration to invest in infrastructure, especially mass transit, we need to reach out to them to be our partners and to bring mass transit across the American Legion Bridge and bring Bus Rapid Transit south from Frederick on I-270 via reversible lanes to have a positive impact toward reversing climate change.

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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival

Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.

Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.

Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!

17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival

Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)

Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895

www.dayofthebook.com

Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival

Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director

[email protected]

301-949-9416 (text preferred)

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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