Bus or rail? County debates I-270 gridlock solution

ROCKVILLE, Md. - Easing gridlock along Interstate 270 has been a goal of the Montgomery County Council for some time. However, the method in which to solve the congestion is still up for debate.

The council discussed in a work session Tuesday the prospects of adding bus lines or a light rail system along I-270 from Shady Grove to Clarksburg.

Councilmember Mark Elrich is on board with the bus.

"I have not been to a meeting yet where people have said, 'We're not interested in mass transit, unless it's on a rail line.' " Elrich says.

Mike Knapp does not echo Elrich's sentiments.

"I haven't had a lot of conversation with folks who want to get on a bus, no matter what you want to call it, whether it's a pretty bus or a not pretty bus," says Knapp.

George Leventhal doesn't see anyone rallying behind the idea of buses.

"We're not hearing from people that say 'I love to ride the bus,' " he said amid laughter. "I'm not hearing those constituents."

Marilyn Balcolmbe of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce says buses have a perception problem.

"There are sexy buses out there," says Balcolmbe. "For better or worse, whether it's fair or not, (people) are going to make that decision to go to the train."

Despite the perception problem, Gaithersburg resident Lynn Rose favors a bus line over light rail.

"If the county council goes for the light rail option, then they are going to feel pressured to have the highest density possible in Gaithersburg West."

Councilmember Phil Andrews says that no matter what option is chosen, people will be happy as long as the system works.

"I think if you provide a vehicle that is fast and comfortable, I don't think people will care whether it's bus or light rail," Andrews says.

A vote, which serves as a recommendation to the state, will be held next week.

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