Good afternoon. Thank you for the opportunity to testify today. I am speaking on behalf of the Coalition for Smarter Growth, a regional nonprofit based in DC. I would like to express my support for the good work of the Office of Planning. In addition to diligent work on small area plans and development review, the Office of Planning’s major effort to revise and update our outmoded, 1950s zoning code is coming to completion this year. I have appreciated how DCOP has engaged the public through working groups, and provided us with new research and analysis to support a robust discussion. OP’s detailed assessment and proposed code revisions will help us fulfill the 2006 Comprehensive Plan vision to build a sustainable, inclusive city.

Transportation advocates call on elected officials to make wiser transportation investments before asking Maryland residents to pay more.

A fact sheet comparing 2009 traffic volumes on Route 460 against other roadways in Virginia, using VDOT’s traffic volume data. The data demonstrates that traffic is not projected to increase by an amount that warrants the cost and risk of this project.

With 15 Metro stations offering ample room for new businesses, housing and public spaces, Prince George’s has all the right ingredients for transit-oriented development (TOD) to create mixed-use, walkable, and vibrant communities. Join us to learn how the county can take full advantage of all its opportunities as the market for TOD continues to grow. TOD is commonly defined as higher-density, mixed-use development within walking distance of transit stations.

A plan for designing a vibrant community near the Capitol Heights Metro station. This presentation outlines the core principles of smart urban design, including how to put a better face on big box stores and encourage walkable living through mixed-use development.