MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) – A project in Montgomery County is getting $1 million from the federal government to help improve Russell Avenue, which is near the former Lakeforest Mall site. Gaithersburg city officials said the project will enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists who travel along Russell Avenue. Montgomery County election officials prepare voters for Election Day Congressman David Trone, who presented the million-dollar check, said the roadway project and a plan to redevelop Lakeforest Mall, will help revitalize an important part of the city. “I think about it and I’m saying, ‘Wow, 16 or 17 hundred housing units, 470,000 square feet of retail, restaurants,’” Trone said. “It’s going to be an unbelievable development that’s going to energize the whole Gaithersburg north county area.” The Russell Avenue Roadway Project is in the design phase and construction is expected to begin in June 2025.