The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), in partnership with the Town of Kensington and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) via the Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) Grant, is conducting a feasibility study to evaluate options for replacing the existing pedestrian pathway crossing over the railroad tracks at the Kensington MARC Station with an ADA-accessible, grade-separated crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The study will explore ways to improve safety, accessibility, and connections between destinations on both sides of the railroad tracks while respecting the historic character of the Kensington MARC station and the surrounding Kensington Historic District.

Project Description

The Kensington MARC Station Grade-Separated Crossing Feasibility Study will evaluate the viability of eliminating the existing pathway-rail grade crossing at the Kensington MARC station and replacing it with a crossing that separates pedestrians and bicyclists from rail traffic.

The existing crossing provides a direct connection between Metropolitan Avenue, and neighborhoods north of the railroad tracks, with Howard Avenue, the MARC station, and destinations in the Kensington Historic District to the south. The route is used by MARC passengers, residents, and visitors traveling to nearby homes, businesses, community facilities, and events.

The study will:

  • Develop and evaluate conceptual alternatives for a grade-separated crossing
  • Consider pedestrian and bicyclist safety, ADA accessibility, community connectivity, and rail operations
  • Consider how potential improvements can be visually compatible with the historic Kensington station and the surrounding historic district
  • Coordinate with community members, local partners and other stakeholders

The feasibility study is an early planning step. It does not include design or construction. Advancement beyond the study will depend on the study's findings, future approvals, and available funding.

Why Is This Study Needed?

The existing pathway crosses active railroad tracks at grade, creating potential conflicts between pedestrians, bicyclists and trains. The community has also expressed the need for a safe pedestrian crossing to link important community destinations on both sides of the tracks, including the Kensington MARC station, nearby neighborhoods, shops, places of worship, parks, community services, and the Kensington Farmers Market.

A grade-separated crossing will:

  • Separate pedestrian and bicycle movements from active rail traffic
  • Improve accessibility for people with disabilities
  • Strengthen connections between neighborhoods and destinations on both sides of the railroad
  • Reduce delays for pedestrians and bicyclists when trains occupy or block the existing crossing
  • Support continued planning for potential rail improvements along the MARC Brunswick Line
  • Preserve access to MARC service while supporting safe and reliable passenger and freight rail operations

Study Area

The study area is bounded by Metropolitan Avenue to the north, Howard Avenue to the south, St. Paul Street to the west, and an area approximately 100 feet east of the Kensington MARC Station to the east.

Project Timeline

Kensington MARC study timeline from spring 2026 through summer 2027. Details follow.

View timeline description

Project timeline description

  1. Project Kickoff — Spring 2026
    • Kickoff meeting and site visit
    • Existing conditions assessment
    • Data collection
  2. Develop Concept — Summer 2026
    • Developed four concept crossing options
    • Pedestrian modeling assessment
    • Met with Mobility and Traffic Committee
  3. Engage Public — Fall 2026 (current phase)
    • Public open house (11/26)
  4. Alternatives Analysis — Spring 2027 (next steps)
    • Incorporate public feedback
    • Complete Alternatives Analysis and Conceptual Engineering
  5. Final Report — Summer 2027 (next steps)
    • Complete final report

Project Stakeholders 

Throughout the study, the project team will engage with a variety of stakeholders, including the groups listed below. Additional stakeholders may be identified and engaged as the study progresses.

  • Town of Kensington
  • Community of Kensington and surrounding neighborhoods 
  • CSX Transportation 
  • Federal Railroad Administration
  • Montgomery County
  • Amtrak

Upcoming Public Engagement Opportunities

Join the project team to learn about the study, ask questions, and share input about safety, accessibility, community connections, and the development of potential crossing alternatives. The meeting will follow an open-house format, allowing participants to arrive at any time and engage with the project team at their convenience.

Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM-7:00 PM
Location: Kensington City Hall
Address: 3710 Mitchell Street, Kensington, MD 20895 [view on Google Maps]

Get Involved: Sign Up for Updates, Comment and Participate

Community input will help the project team understand local priorities and evaluate potential crossing alternatives. Opportunities to participate will be posted on this webpage as the study progresses.

For questions or comments, contact the project team: marcplanning@mdot.maryland.gov  

Accessibility and Language Assistance

The Maryland Transit Administration is committed to ensuring that public meetings are accessible to all participants. To request disability accommodations, language interpretation or translated materials, contact marcplanning@mdot.maryland.gov at least seven days prior to the meeting.