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Great post. I went to high school in Wheaton, and I've enjoyed watching it improve over the years (not the least of the improvements was the relocation of my old high school!)

However, What I find to be the biggest deterrant to real walkability is a problem also faced in Silver Spring: 6 lane high traffic roads bisecting the city. I know some improvements have been made in the last 10 years, but risking my life crossing University Boulevard, Georgia Avenue, and Viers Mill Road is one of my most vivid memories of high school.

Of course, traffic may be too high in the town to call for removal of a lane in each direction on those roads. Perhaps more street parking during non-rush hour along with some median trees (So long as Leggett doesn't block them). But improving those streetscapes would be my #1 issue for increasing density in Wheaton.

Also, are there any plans to turn the mall into a mixed use set-up like they're (allegedly) trying to do in Laurel and a couple other places? That might improve density and walkability as well as connectivity to Kensington and other neighboring towns.

by Dave Murphy on Oct 14, 2008 3:07 am • link • report