Metropolitan Branch Trail’s Latest Expansion Connects DC to Silver Spring
Exciting news for Washington D.C. residents and commuters! The Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT) has just reached a major milestone, with the official opening of its Fort Totten-Takoma segment. This expansion significantly advances the vision of a seamless pedestrian and bicycle connection between downtown D.C. and Silver Spring, Maryland, enriching our local infrastructure and offering new ways to explore the city.
A Vital New Segment Unveiled
On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Mayor Muriel Bowser, alongside the Director of the Department of Transportation, celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the new Fort Totten-Takoma section of the MBT. This $12 million project introduces 1.7 miles of dedicated north-south bicycle and pedestrian lanes, creating crucial links between the Fort Totten, Takoma, Manor Park, Riggs Park, and other adjacent communities.
Enhanced Features for Daily Users
Designed with the modern urban user in mind, this new portion of the MBT boasts a wide-paved multiuse surface, perfect for various activities. Safety and sustainability are also at the forefront, with state-of-the-art LED lighting for evening use, efficient stormwater management facilities, and integrated security cameras. Accommodating over 5,000 users each day, the MBT continues to be a cherished and vital artery for recreation and transportation in our city.
Closing the Final Gaps in D.C.’s Corridor
The completion of the Fort Totten-Takoma segment is a crucial step towards realizing a fully connected MBT. It addresses one of the last remaining gaps in D.C.’s portion of the corridor, which will ultimately stretch from Union Station to Silver Spring, Md. Looking ahead, officials confirm that construction on the final Takoma and Piney Branch section is scheduled to commence in 2026, promising to fully bridge the remaining void in the D.C. area of the trail.
Mayor Bowser on Community Promise and Progress
“Expanding the MBT has been a priority since day one,” stated Mayor Bowser, emphasizing the administration’s commitment. “With the new Fort Totten to Takoma section, we’re delivering on our promise to the community, expanding access to one of DC’s favorite trails, and giving Washingtonians one more way to move around the city.” This dedication underscores the city’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and promote active lifestyles.
D.C.’s Commitment to Green Transportation
The MBT expansion is part of a broader, sustained effort by the District to enhance its bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Since 2015, D.C. has notably added 59 miles of new bike lanes, including a substantial 36 miles of protected lanes, offering safer routes for cyclists. Furthermore, the Capital Bikeshare program has seen significant growth, nearly doubling its number of stations over the past decade, making bike sharing more convenient than ever for residents and visitors alike.
Snapshot of D.C.’s Bike Infrastructure Growth
| Category | Since 2015 | Over 10 Years |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Lanes Added | 59 miles | — |
| Protected Lanes Added | 36 miles | — |
| Capital Bikeshare Stations | — | Nearly Doubled |
Frequently Asked Questions About the MBT Expansion
- What is the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT)?
The MBT is a multiuse trail designed for bicyclists and pedestrians, connecting various communities between downtown D.C. and Silver Spring, Md. It serves as a vital artery for recreation and transportation. - Which communities does the new Fort Totten-Takoma segment connect?
This 1.7-mile segment links the Fort Totten, Takoma, Manor Park, Riggs Park, and other adjacent communities, enhancing connectivity across these neighborhoods. - When is the final section of the D.C. portion of the MBT expected to be completed?
Construction on the last remaining gap, the Takoma and Piney Branch section, is scheduled to begin in 2026, aiming to complete the D.C. area of the trail. - What features are included in the expanded trail?
The new segment offers a wide-paved multiuse surface, modern LED lighting for safety, efficient stormwater management facilities, and integrated security cameras. - How many users does the MBT accommodate daily?
The Metropolitan Branch Trail currently accommodates more than 5,000 users each day, highlighting its popularity and importance to the local community.
This latest expansion of the Metropolitan Branch Trail is a testament to D.C.’s ongoing commitment to fostering a greener, more connected city, providing residents with enhanced opportunities for active transportation and enjoying the outdoors.
Metropolitan Branch Trail expands to link DC to Silver Spring
