by David Humpton, Executive Vice President
Our pools
MVF staff and contractors have been working diligently to get our seven pools up and running, including passing county inspections, for everyone’s enjoyment. I have one special request: adhere to the rules so that everyone can have a good time. The rules (Pool Operating Policy) are posted at the pools, and if you haven’t gotten a copy already, you’ll find them in the Residents Guide delivered with this issue of your Village News. The rules are to keep everyone safe and keep things working smoothly. Have fun, and bring your sun glasses and sunscreen!
Golf Course redevelopment
Monument Realty has filed a preliminary plan and site plan to the county planning department for review. Planning staff has been working with Monument on fine-tuning the concept plan, which is in keeping with the Montgomery Village Master Plan. A public hearing on the plan is expected to be scheduled for September.
County budget proceeds
The county council is expected to adopt the county’s 2018 budget soon, which includes funding that is beneficial to the Montgomery Village community for additional police resources for the 6th District Police. In addition, the council is working on significantly increasing the county executive’s budget for roadway maintenance. MVF and homes corporations have requested resurfacing of several deteriorating county roads, such as Watkins Mill Road.
Enhanced Ride On service
Montgomery County has a robust bus service in the upcounty that will provide additional alternative transportation options to residents and businesses in Montgomery Village. There was a recent announcement that in October, Ride-On will launch a new, limited stop, higher speed service on Maryland Route 355 called the Ride On extRa, which will provide a faster option for bus riders during rush hours. The service will make only 12 stops between the Medical Center Metrorail Station in Bethesda and the Lakeforest Transit Center in Gaithersburg, which will allow Ride On extRa to provide faster service with “Less Stop. More Go.” Buses will run every 10 minutes from 5:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Lakeforest Transit Center Modernization
Montgomery Village Ride On users will see new construction at the transit center to improve its safety and operations. The two major goals of the project are to build 12 bus bays along Odend’hal Avenue and build a restroom facility for bus operators. Additionally, a station platform with a transit shelter will be built. The lane configurations on the roadways will not be changed, and sidewalk improvements will be included as part of the project.