Walter Reed, NIH Expansions In Md. Worry Officials

ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) -- Montgomery County officials are concerned about how planned expansions at the National Institutes of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center will affect traffic on Bethesda's congested roads.

The Washington Post reports the NIH plans to add 3,000 workers to its main campus along Rockville Pike, which already has about 20,260 workers. The expansion would take place over the next 20 years.

Meanwhile, a planning staff report says Walter Reed plans to add 925 employees at its base over the next decade.

Cherian Eapen, the transportation planner who's reviewed both growth proposals, says the facilities will need to limit the number of workers driving alone. Planners also recommend designating a kiss-and-ride area along Rockville Pike and Jones Bridge Road and implementing a bike-share program.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)