PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — After several rounds of discussion, Calvert Planning and Zoning received the green light from the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to advertise a public hearing on the Prince Frederick Town Center Master Plan.
The master plan includes a few key language changes regarding growth and density. To acknowledge the county’s evolving priorities around development, planners changed the messaging from “incentivizing growth” to “managing growth.” They also reduced the allowable unit density per acre from 14 to 4 and reduced the number of proposed subdistricts from five to three.
The updated subdistrict map expanded the low-density housing districts and the “old town” district, which serves as a medium-density, mixed-use space. Expanding the old town district allows for more future flexibility if and when the county decides to pursue a Main Street designation. If the county decides to pursue the designation, a new master plan would be prepared.
Prince Frederick has experienced significant growth since the last master plan was proposed, including the addition of shopping centers, residential housing and the upcoming Armory Square development. Planners acknowledged this explosive growth and said the plan was developed to preserve what residents love. They also specifically set out to preserve historical sites and roads.
Calvert residents, on the other hand, remain dedicated to maintaining a rural atmosphere and pushed officials to pass an ordinance that lowered allowable housing density. Recently, the Lusby Villas project was allowed to continue despite community pushback.
As with other master plans, the Prince Frederick Master Plan is a living document and can be updated. Long Range Planner Tay Harris highlighted the fact that Prince Frederick has the lowest commercial vacancy rate in Southern Maryland, showing its strong possibilities for more growth and importance as a commercial area in the region.
Residents can view the master plan online. Planners also said they’ll announce more information about town halls and public comment on their social media and through other advertising.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!