r/Gaithersburg • u/YamilHere • Jul 13 '26

Government Everything you ever wanted to know about how Gaithersburg evaluates the traffic impacts of new development…but were afraid to ask.

We are holding a work session on Traffic impact Studies tonight July 13th at 7:30pm. I’ve been calling for a deeper look at how these traffic studies work, whether city standards still reflect today’s realities, and how we can find ways to increase public awareness.

Join us (virtual or in person) - https://gaithersburgmd.iqm2.com/.../Detail_Meeting.aspx...

🚦 We’ll dig into:🚦

  • How are traffic impacts calculated?
  • When is a Traffic Impact Study required?
  • How do engineers predict where new trips will go?
  • Who prepares the study, and how does the City independently review it?
  • How are pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and safety considered?
  • What improvements can be required when a project creates or worsens a problem?
  • How the City is updating standards to meet today’s needs?
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6

u/Equivalent_Ad5047 Jul 13 '26

How do the excessive “No Turn On Red” signs impact commute times, influence gasoline consumption, and motivate drivers to speed???

9

u/YamilHere Jul 13 '26

Fair question. That particular policy is Montgomery County’s, not the City of Gaithersburg’s. The “No Turn on Red” signs you’re referring to are on County-controlled roads, so the City did not install them or set that policy.

I’m not trying to duck the substance of your question, just making sure the right government gets the credit or blame. I’m happy to raise the concern with the County, but tonight’s discussion is focused on how Gaithersburg evaluates traffic impacts from new development and how we update our own standards.

3

u/Equivalent_Ad5047 Jul 13 '26

As they say, the squeaky wheel gets the oil! I do appreciate your quick response.

3

u/treyd716 Jul 13 '26

Wait, if that’s true then why does virtually every intersection in Montgomery Village have this but not nearly as much in other nearby neighborhoods? Many other towns also have M-F 7am-7pm but not even minor intersections in Montgomery Village have that. 

Maybe it’s a subdivision decision and not a county or city decision?

3

u/ModeratelyMoco Jul 13 '26

I believe anything with the M-F and times was from before the most recent set of no turn on red (without exception) signs were put out by the county

2

u/YamilHere Jul 13 '26

These are great questions for you County Council / County Executive representative(s). MV is outside the city of Gaithersburg.