Vision Zero Annual Report Released Highlighting Accomplishments and Celebrating Completion of Phase 1 of the Bethesda Bikeway

Per Montgomery County: Montgomery County this week released its annual report for the Vision Zero Initiative to end serious and fatal crashes on roadways by 2030. The Fiscal Year 2022 report details progress made on 114 tasks and projects that were undertaken during the year. The report was released at a ribbon cutting for Phase 1 of the Bethesda Bikeway at Woodmont Avenue. The bikeway has pavement separated from the roadway which will make that section of Bethesda safer for bicyclists. The complete FY22 Vision Zero annual report can be found on the County’s Vision Zero website.

“We need our streets to work for everyone whether walking, biking, using an assistive device or driving. That is why I have continued to increase funding for our traffic safety projects,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “In FY22, we spent $101.5 million on Vision Zero and this year I have increased the budget by 23 percent to $123.1 million. We can make our Vision Zero goal a reality through these projects, campaigns and with your help. Keep yourself and everyone on the road safe by putting your phone away while driving, obeying the speed limit, buckling up for every trip and every seat and never drive impaired.”

While there is much work to be done to reach the ultimate Vision Zero goal, FY22 represented a crucial year for the program with new initiatives started and key projects underway.
Highlights for the year included:

  • Nine projects underway on High Injury Network (HIN) corridors. HIN corridors represent 3 percent of the County roads and 41 percent of serious and fatal injuries. Four safety audits, two project designs and three construction projects were completed.
  • Eight pedestrian hybrid beacons were installed. The devices provide a red signal for drivers to safely allow people on foot and on bike to cross.
  • 27 bikeway projects are underway. Four already have been completed, including the installation of the second and third protected intersections at Bethesda and Woodmont avenues in Bethesda and at Cameron and Fenton streets in Silver Spring.
  • Seven miles of new sidewalk constructed.
  • 40,000 resident engagements across 90 events and five safety campaigns. This includes bike safety rodeos for over 300 schoolchildren.
  • More than $1 million secured by the County from State, Federal and regional grant programs for projects and focused law enforcement efforts.
  • 18,154 traffic stops for excessive speeding by law enforcement and more than 300,000 speed citations from automated enforcement.

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT), which implements Vision Zero changes to County roads, such as pedestrian hybrid beacons, also was present to celebrate opening of Phase 1 of the Bethesda Bikeway.

“We are committed to the safety of all our roadway users,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Safety is our highest priority, and we are striving to make changes to our roads as quickly as we can. That is why the Vision Zero funding is so crucial, and I am thankful that the County Executive and the Council have been working together to allow for increases in this funding to advance the safety of our residents. I am saddened by every report of another crash resulting in serious injury or loss of life and remain committed to the work we’re doing to reduce and eliminate these tragedies. In addition to making our facilities safer, these projects can also provide assets for our communities. As one example, the Bethesda Bikeway is going to make bicycling much safer and appealing in this area.”

The new cycletrack segments run along Bethesda Avenue and Willow Lane from the Capital Crescent Trail to 47th Street near Elm Street Park and along Woodmont Avenue between Miller Avenue and Montgomery Lane. Both bikeways are separated from traffic by raised concrete medians to protect cyclists. The two cycletracks are part of a new two-way bike network in downtown Bethesda that offers bright green separated bike lanes. Additional phases are in planning, design, and construction. The Phase 2 is scheduled to be completed next year.

“I want to thank all the staff from 20 municipal, County and State departments and agencies for their hard work on the Vision Zero Action Plan last year,” said County Vision Zero Coordinator Wade Holland. “Many long hours and time on nights and weekends were needed to advance this new plan while keeping up with the day-to-day work. Their dedication to our safety mission makes all this possible.”

The FY22 report is the first under the new Vision Zero 2030 Action Plan that outlines the projects and activities necessary to reach the Vision Zero goal of ending serious and fatal crashes. The initiative’s FY23 work plan is underway with projects across the County.

To learn more about Vision Zero efforts and how to get involved, visit the Vision Zero website.

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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!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

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