Montgomery County’s LoveFlash buses have returned for February with five decorated bus rapid transit buses along Colesville Road and Columbia Pike.
Flash is the Montgomery County Department of Transportation’s BRT service, designed for quick and efficient travel with upgraded amenities and pre-boarding payment. The Colesville Road & Columbia Pike (U.S. 29) Flash route has 12 stops, connecting downtown Silver Spring to Briggs Chaney, with high-frequency service to Burtonsville during peak hours.
Riders at the Four Corners, Burnt Mills, White Oak, and Briggs Chaney stations can take selfies with special Valentine installations. Residents are invited to snap pictures of the decorated buses or stations, post them on social media, and tag @MCDOTNow for a chance to win a weekly $25 gift card.
The LoveFlash contest runs until Friday, February 28.
“Our Flash BRT riders have shown their love of Flash, which has been one of our top five most popular bus routes since it debuted in 2020,” Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich said in a press release. “We hope the decorated buses and stations will share our love with our riders and encourage those who have not yet used the service to give it a try.”
The county plans to expand the Flash network with seven new corridors and an extension to Howard County, which is expected to open in 2026.
“There is plenty to love about Flash BRT,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “The Flash BRT network will connect Montgomery County residents with employment, education, essential services and entertainment and offers faster service and upgraded amenities. We hope the decorated Flash buses will draw attention to the Flash network as we work to expand it across the County.”
Flash fares are $1 per ride, but seniors 65 and older, persons with disabilities, and youth 18 and under can ride for free with specialized SmarTrip cards. More information about the service and upcoming expansions can be found at montgomerycountymd.gov.
MCDOT Photo