Pictured: Montrell Koonce, Mrs. Gabriel, Aberdeen’s SMA teacher and Bryant DeBruyne, Aberdeen Proving Ground

This map will be ready sometime in May – hopefully in time for the annual Bike to Work Day. Working with his mentor, Bryant DeBruyne, a GIS specialist from Aberdeen Proving Ground, Montrell is creating a map that will show bicycling routes, Harford Transit bus stops, hazard areas, elevations, and points of interests throughout Harford County. When completed, this project will provide valuable and practical information that will keep Harford’s cyclists safe and informed. The genesis for this project came from a personal interest in cycling paired with an interest in GIS technology.

“Montrell’s project will be a boon for the professional as well as the recreational cyclist,” said Pat Fielder, Harford County’s Rideshare and Bike to Work Day Event Coordinator. “With the information he has gathered, it will also benefit those who ride Harford Transit. Ultimately, his interactive map will allow you to hyperlink to Harford Transit to identify when a bus will arrive at a particular bus stop by a simple click of a button,” Fielder stated.

“Kudos as well to Mr. DeBruyne for his interest, expertise and time in mentoring Montrell in this significant project,” Fielder remarked.

The final version will be available sometime in May. The Harford County Commuter Assistance web page will host the map when completed.

The Science and Mathematics Academy at Aberdeen provides students with the opportunity to experience challenging coursework in science, mathematics, and technology with an emphasis on research and real world application. Regular contact with practicing scientists and mathematicians is a cornerstone of the program and seniors each complete a capstone project of original research under the mentorship of professionals in their chosen area of investigation.