'Science City' Could Help Rail Efforts

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Maryland Transit Administration says a proposed "science city" near Gaithersburg could draw more commuters, and help the state secure federal dollars for light rail.

Johns Hopkins University is leading efforts for the proposed $10 billion live-work community near life sciences office parks already in place.

Henry Kay, deputy administrator for planning and engineering for the transit administration, says the increased density would be "strongly beneficial" and makes light rail and bus rapid transit feasible for a federal funding application.

A state report on projected ridership for the project is set for release next week.

Local officials are evaluating the "science city" proposal. Critics say it would cause more road congestion.

___

Information from: The Washington Post, http://www.washingtonpost.com

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.