'What's Next for Downtown Columbia?' HoCo Chamber Asks

Want to know what's going on with the plan for Downtown Columbia?

The Howard County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a panel discussion on the subject at its upcoming meeting.

“Our membership is very interested in activities in Downtown Columbia as the first projects take shape at The Mall in Columbia, Merriweather Post Pavilion and surrounding areas," Miles Coffman, chair of the chamber's board of directors, said.

Presenters at the chamber's July luncheon meeting include Howard County Director of Downtown Redevelopment Mark Thompson, Howard Hughes Corporation Vice President of Development Greg Fitchitt and Columbia Association President/CEO Milton W. Matthews.

Each is involved in the 30-year master plan for Columbia, which calls for adding up to 13 million square feet of commercial, residential and cultural development downtown. In addition to updating the chamber on the latest developments in Columbia, the speakers will share their visions for the area.

The Howard County Chamber of Commerce luncheon will be Wednesday, July 23, at DoubleTree by Hilton, 5485 Twin Knolls Road, in Columbia. Networking starts at 11 a.m. Lunch is at noon, and the presentation is at 12:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $55 in advance for chamber members or $60 at the door. Future members can purchase tickets for $65. Registration is available online.