Debate over Beltway expansion heats up as eminent domain stays on the table
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (ABC7) — It was standing room only at the Silver Spring Civic Building, as the debate over the I-495/I-270 expansion heats up.
“A lot of people have very strong opinions against this railroading, the destruction of our environment and our neighborhoods,” said Dee Clarkin.
Montgomery County Council members say under the current proposal, close to three dozen homes could be impacted by the plans, under eminent domain.
“If we have a contentious project, we need a full-throated conversation about it,” said Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass.
In a series of tweets on Sunday morning, Governor Larry Hogan blasted protesters.
“We’re all concerned about congestion. We’re the experts on congestion, but they have to do it the right way,” said Councilmember Tom Hucker.
Hucker says he is looking for a compromise on the issue.
“Fix 270 and leave 495, the eastern portion, alone. They can also widen the western portion of 495, which has a much wider right of way and wouldn’t take any
properties. The governor should keep his promise to work with us,” said Hucker.
A vote on the issue is expected in the next few weeks.
