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Commuting to Gaithersburg - Best Options/Information Needed

Discussion in 'Broadlands Community Issues' started by J W, Nov 18, 2009.

  1. J W

    J W New Member

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    I'm considering a job offer in Gaithersburg. Obviously I have some concerns given that Broadlands seems to be the worse starting point for the journey.

    How long does it take down the toll road to the the beltway? What if I used the HOV lanes (legally of course)?

    What about Whites Ferry? How long is the wait typically on both sides to get on the ferry?

    Any insight or information is greatly appreciated. Thanks
     
  2. technosapien

    technosapien New Member

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    It depends on what time. I drive to Silver Spring daily for work, if I am out the door by 6AM it's not too obnoxious of a drive, about 25-30 minutes from Dulles/29 to the beltway (I won't drive the Greenway, $5 for 4 miles is insanely obnoxious, so I take the long way up to Waxpool, down 29, to the Toll Road). If I leave at 6:30, it adds 10-15 minutes to the commute just for the toll road. 6:45, and I'm a 15-25 minutes up. From there it just gets worse.

    The HOV lands do tend to run faster, until around Wolf Trap when it's not HOV anymore and the EZ-Pass holders are trying to kill eachother to get on those left two lanes.

    If you take the ferry, let me know how it goes. I've always wanted to try it but it looks like it's so far out of the way as to not be useful for me.
     
  3. lisas

    lisas New Member

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    The ferry takes about 9 minutes in each direction. That includes loading cards, crossing the river, and then unloading on the other side. The worst thing is to drive up to the ferry right as it is pulling away - then you are stuck waiting there another 15-20 minutes. I can't remember how much the toll is - maybe $2 or $3 each way, but you can buy discount coupon books. Once you get to the MD side, it's not like there are major roadways to get you to G'burg - you will have to drive through Poolesville and a bunch of narrow, rural roads.

    Another option you might consider is to take Rt 15 north (driving against traffic) and then cross into MD at Point of Rocks. As soon as you cross into MD, take Rt. 28 south, which will wind you down near Gaithersburg. Either way, it will be a one hour+ commute in each direction.
     
  4. Ken

    Ken Member

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    If you drive through Poolesville, be careful of speed cameras. The road has a long stretch where it's 25 MPH but feels like it should be faster.

    Yep, I got a ticket in Poolesville for going 40 MPH in this 25 MPH zone.
     
  5. girlPA

    girlPA New Member

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    I currently make the commute to Rockville, MD everyday for work. The commute typically takes about an hour each direction, except of course when there is an accident.

    I do use the Greenway and 267 as I am leaving Broadlands at primetime...around 7:45 each morning. It is a long commute but it's manageable.

    In the morning I have found the volume to typically be on 267 and on the way home more volume to be on the beltway. 270 never has any issues really. I do not take the HOV lanes however, I think that should speed your commute up, especially in the morning. Good luck with your decision!
     
  6. sandaddy

    sandaddy New Member

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    I'd go the back way to White's Ferry. Even if I had to go up to Point of Rocks and then cut back I'd probably do that.

    Not sure how traffic is b/c I don't use route during the week, but it's got to be better than toll roads and beltway unless you're leaving at 6 a.m.
     

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