BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — The search for parking in downtown Bethesda will be even worse for about three years, with a key street and major parking lots closing for high-rise and underground construction projects.

The Washington Post reports that in January, construction on Woodmont and Bethesda avenues will close two lots that provide about 300 metered spaces. A block of Woodmont Avenue that many motorists use to bypass Wisconsin Avenue will also close for about 20 months.

The construction projects include a five-story building with retail on the ground floor and 162 residential units above. A
nine-story building with 88 residential units and ground-level retail is also being built.

The developer says Woodmont Avenue will close within weeks of the beginning of the construction so crews can build an underground parking garage.

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