BETHESDA, Md. — The Montgomery County Department of Transportation has awarded Clark an $81 million design-build contract for the MD 355 Crossing in Bethesda, Md.

As part of the design-build project, Clark will construct a pedestrian access route under Maryland Route 355 and high-speed elevators that link the Metrorail mezzanine at the Medical Center Station in Bethesda with the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The scope of work also will include improvements to the intersection of Rockville Pike at Jones Bridge Road.

With more than 7,000 pedestrians predicted to use the new access route daily, the project is essential to providing military service men and women with world class care. “I am thrilled we are giving the green light to this essential project,” said County Executive Ike Leggett. “This project will help patients and personnel get timely care instead of being stuck in gridlock.”

Comprised of concrete, granite, and glass finishes, the tunnel will feature acoustic panels with recessed can lights and quarry tile finish flooring to maintain continuity with the Metro’s aesthetic.

A number of Clark entities will be a part of the project. Clark subsidiary, Atkinson Construction, will perform shaft excavation, tunneling, and break through work to the WMATA Station. Clark Foundations will provide excavation support, and C3M Power Systems will perform electrical work throughout the project.

Design is underway and construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2017. The project is slated to reach substantial completion in June 2020.