A proposed 4-6 lane Maryland highway would cross over 50 acres of wetlands and forest, threatening rare plants, trout spawning grounds, and a major state park. This petition asks the Montgomery County Department of Transportation to consider mass transit options instead.

The proposed highway, known as M-83, would be 4-6 lanes wide and connect two of Washington, DC’s northernmost suburbs, Derwood and Clarksburg. While the county’s goal of easing the commute on I-270 is a laudable one, this is not the right way to do it. In addition to the above, the six new lanes would penetrate an important local aquifer, destroy numerous historical sites and neighborhoods, and disrupt bird nesting and other wildlife.

Instead, local opponents from the TAME coalition (Transit Alternatives to Midcounty Highway Extended) are asking the county to consider bus rapid transits, improved MARC commuter train status, and a new line for the Washington DC Metro subway (one long under consideration by DC, Maryland, and Virginia). TAME has earned the support of the Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, and various local faith and environmental groups.

Help those locals protect their community and their environment by signing this petition to the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, asking for mass transit instead of wetlands destruction.

Photo credit: Seneca Creek State Park in Montgomery County, MD, courtesy Flickr user Anosmia.