MDOT SHA completes new I-270 interchange at Watkins Mill Road

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) announced the completion of the $124 million interchange at Interstate 270 and Watkins Mill Road, a project that will foster economic growth and assist Maryland in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The project, which includes a new bridge over I-270 and ramps connecting Watkins Mill Road with the interstate, is part of Governor Larry Hogan’s investment of $1.97 billion in state highways and bridges. Montgomery County contributed $4.9 million for design and engineering.

“This interchange has tremendous economic benefits for the region and improves access to the Metropolitan Grove MARC Station,” said Governor Hogan. “The men and women of MDOT SHA have delivered a critical link in this employment corridor that will advance our economic recovery as we continue to reopen Maryland.”

The 1.25-mile project began construction in Summer 2017, and extends from MD 124 (Montgomery Village Avenue) to Great Seneca Creek at Watkins Mill Road. It includes a new four-lane bridge over I-270 with entry and exit ramps from Watkins Mill Road onto I-270.

The interchange and the new section of Watkins Mill Road connect both sides of Gaithersburg, providing improved access to the Gaithersburg Medical Center, Metropolitan Grove MARC Station, the Montgomery County Police Department and local neighborhoods and businesses. Previously, residents and visitors did not have direct access to I-270 from Watkins Mill Road, and were required to use MD 117 (Clopper Road), MD 355 or MD 124 to reach the opposite side of the interstate. This new link will reduce congestion in one of the most heavily traveled areas in Montgomery County and enhance bicycle and pedestrian access throughout the area. “This project will literally ‘bridge’ two sides of the City of Gaithersburg, connecting residents to job centers, medical centers and the MARC station,” said Transportation Secretary Gregory Slater. “Thanks to the crews of Wagman Heavy Civil Inc. and the hardworking SHA team for working through the health crisis. This project is delivering more travel options with improved access for everyone: motorists, truck drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, transit users – everyone.”

The I-270 Corridor is known as the Montgomery County’s Technology Corridor, and is home to dozens of existing businesses and planned development in the Gaithersburg area. The completion of this project is an example of the work MDOT has accomplished during Maryland’s COVID-19 State of Emergency while maintaining safe conditions for commuters and work crews. “The I-270 Technology Corridor is an important component of our economic development plans to support dozens of thriving businesses that are industry leaders in biotechnology,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “This long-awaited and much-needed interchange will help support our plans to enhance economic development and provide traffic relief in the northern part of the county…It is a step toward addressing our evolving transportation needs, but more importantly it symbolizes a bridge from our past to our future.

“I want to thank the Maryland Department of Transportation and the City of Gaithersburg for being great partners on this project to create transportation solutions that improve the quality of life for our citizens,” Elrich added.

The interchange project included resurfacing I-270 collector/distributor lanes and a section of Watkins Mill Road and constructing retaining walls. Extensive stream restoration and construction of culverts and drainage structures were also part of the project.

“The new interchange is more than just another exit. It’s a vital link to residential and commercial developments that will provide new energy to the northern reaches of our city,” said Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman. “We appreciate the efforts of Governor Hogan, Secretary Slater, County Executive Elrich and all who worked so diligently to not only get it built, but do it ahead of schedule. On behalf of those who live and work in Gaithersburg, and those who just drive through – now much more easily – thank you.”

MDOT SHA works hard every day to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews and our customers. Drivers need to stay alert, focus on the road and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers. For a list of all major MDOT SHA projects, visit wwww.roads.maryland.gov. For a look at real-time commute conditions, visit www.md511.maryland.gov.