Driving Cost from College Park, Maryland to Washington, District of Columbia

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The Cost of a Trip Between College Park, Maryland and Washington, District of Columbia

Planning a trip between College Park, Maryland and Washington, District of Columbia? Whether you're a student commuting to class or a visitor exploring the nation's capital, it's important to consider the cost of transportation. With fluctuating gas prices and various route options, it's important to choose the most cost-effective and efficient way to travel. In this article, we'll explore the different routes between College Park and Washington, D.C., and highlight the cost and distance of each one. We'll also recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options and Costs

Route 1: Using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295)

The Baltimore-Washington Parkway is a direct route between College Park and Washington, D.C., making it a popular choice for commuters and visitors. The distance between College Park and Washington, D.C. via MD-295 is approximately 9 miles, with an average driving time of 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Based on the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, and the average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for most vehicles, the cost of driving from College Park to Washington, D.C. via MD-295 would be around $2.20 each way. This estimate takes into account the round trip distance of 18 miles.

Route 2: Using the Capital Beltway (I-495)

Another route option between College Park and Washington, D.C. is via the Capital Beltway (I-495). This route offers a longer distance of approximately 12 miles and an average driving time of 25 minutes, due to potential traffic and congestion on the Beltway.

Based on the same gas prices and fuel economy, the cost of driving from College Park to Washington, D.C. via I-495 would be around $2.88 each way, accounting for the round trip distance of 24 miles.

Route 3: Using Public Transportation

In addition to driving, there are public transportation options available for traveling between College Park and Washington, D.C. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Metrorail and Metrobus systems, providing convenient and affordable transportation options for commuters and visitors.

Using the Metrorail to travel from College Park to Washington, D.C. would cost $3.85 each way, based on the current fare for a peak-hour trip. The total round trip cost would be $7.70. Metrobus fares vary based on distance traveled, but generally range from $2.00 to $4.25 for a one-way trip.

Based on the cost and distance analysis, the most cost-effective route for traveling between College Park, Maryland and Washington, D.C. is via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295). This route offers a shorter distance, lower fuel costs, and faster travel time compared to the Capital Beltway (I-495). It is also a more convenient and direct route for commuters and visitors.

Using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway would save approximately $0.68 round trip compared to using the Capital Beltway, and offers a more efficient travel experience. With the current gas prices and traffic considerations, this route is the recommended option for those looking to minimize the cost of their trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between College Park, Maryland and Washington, D.C. can vary based on the chosen route and mode of transportation. Driving via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) offers the most cost-effective option, with an estimated round trip cost of $4.40 based on current gas prices. This route also provides a convenient and efficient travel experience, with a shorter distance and faster driving time.

When accounting for potential traffic and road conditions, as well as the cost of public transportation, driving via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway is the recommended route for commuters and visitors traveling between College Park and Washington, D.C. With proper planning and consideration of current gas prices, travelers can make informed decisions to optimize the cost of their trip.