SILVER SPRING – As part of an ongoing effort to envision ways to build better communities, Montgomery County planners will present their draft scope of work for an in-depth analysis of downtown Wheaton to the Planning Board on Thursday, September 4.
One of four Central Business Districts (CBDs) in the county, downtown Wheaton holds great potential to become a more pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use downtown with both thriving businesses and diverse neighborhoods, planners say.
The Planning Board has asked community planners to focus on areas near mass transit as ideal places for higher density development, which can reduce traffic and environmental impacts.
The Wheaton scope of work lays out an ambitious study of 484 acres around the Wheaton Metro station to examine ways to encourage great urban design, efficient transportation, better pedestrian links, inviting public spaces, environmental sustainability and more. Throughout the study, planners will work with Wheaton’s multicultural residents and business owners to recommend development patterns that best meet their needs.
The Planning Department last examined Wheaton’s commercial center 18 years ago. Now they propose to amend that 1990 Sector Plan in a study that will span about a year. After planners finish their first draft, they will present it to the Planning Board, which will host a public hearing and work sessions, then send its version to the County Executive and the Montgomery County Council for final consideration.
Planners develop master and sector plans to create a framework for each community designed to last 15 to 20 years. Those visions help planners and policy-makers – such as the Planning Board and County Council – make policy and decide on proposed development.
Learn more about the Wheaton plan and view the draft scope of work.
WHO:
Montgomery County Planning Board
WHAT:
Review proposed Wheaton CBD and Vicinity Sector Plan scope of work
WHEN:
Thursday, September 4, approximately 11 a.m.
WHERE:
Park and Planning Headquarters
8787 Georgia Ave.
Silver Spring, MD
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