Montgomery County Council finalizes Complete Streets Master Plan in transportation update

The July 21, 2025, Montgomery County TE Committee Worksession focused on the ongoing implementation of the Complete Streets design philosophy, which aims to enhance transportation safety and accessibility throughout the county. This initiative, initially adopted by the Montgomery Planning Board and the Department of Transportation in mid-2021, was solidified into county law with the passage of bills 24-22 and 34-22 in February 2023.

The meeting outlined the transition process, which is divided into three phases. The first phase involved shifting from a car-centric road classification system to a multimodal Complete Streets approach. The second phase assessed land use contexts, particularly regarding pedestrian access and connectivity, while identifying various area types. Currently, the committee is in the third phase, which focuses on confirming the new street classifications established by the recent legislative changes.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of aligning street classifications with both land use context and street function. The committee reviewed five distinct area types, ranging from high-density downtown areas to rural country regions. This classification system is designed to reflect the varying development intensities and transportation needs across the county.

To aid public understanding of the Complete Streets initiative, the committee presented two informational videos. These resources explain the rationale behind street classifications and their intended functions, emphasizing the goal of creating safer and more efficient transportation systems.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the Complete Streets framework, ensuring it meets the diverse needs of Montgomery County residents. Further updates and community engagement efforts are expected as the project progresses.