Community Tool Engages Riverdale Park Residents on Community Vision

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY INITIATES EAST RIVERDALE AND BEACON HEIGHTS SECTOR PLAN

New Community Tool Launched to Engage Residents on Community Vision

Upper Marlboro, MD – The Prince George’s County Planning Department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) requests public involvement in developing a new sector plan for the East Riverdale and Beacon Heights area of the County, through the use of a Community Wikimap Planning Tool. The sector plan area includes several landmarks such as the Riverdale Plaza Shopping Center, the commercial corridor along Kenilworth Avenue and the neighborhoods of Riverdale Heights, Riverdale Hills, Crestwood, Templeton Knolls, Eastpines and Beacon Heights. It also contains two planned Purple Line light rail stations— Riverdale Park and Beacon Heights.

“I am excited this plan is moving forward at two important neighborhood nodes where reinvestment is needed,” said Prince George’s County Council Member Dannielle Glaros (D) – District 3. “Both are along the Purple Line route and it is important to have an updated, visionary plan in place.”

The sector plan will focus on developing a strategic plan of action addressing a range of issues including: land use, economic prosperity, transportation and mobility, natural and built environment, housing and neighborhoods, healthy communities, public facilities, and community heritage, culture and design.

“The demographics and character of the neighborhoods have changed,” said Fern Piret, Planning Director. “We are hoping that the community’s input can help guide quality of life enhancements for current and future residents, businesses and surrounding neighborhoods.”

Ideas and suggestions on the future of this community can be provided through the use of the Wikimap Planning Tool. This tool allows users to recommend improvements like walkable trails, sidewalks, bike routes and more by drawing points and lines on an editable map. Users can also provide feedback on others’ recommendations. The information gathered will help shape the plan recommendations.

Residents and other stakeholders can visit: www.pgplanning.org/ERBH.htm to learn more about the East Riverdale and Beacon Heights Sector Plan and to input their ideas into the interactive Community Planning tool.

About the Prince George’s County Planning Department

The Prince George’s Planning Department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is responsible for preserving, protecting, and managing the County’s resources through high-quality planning services and growth management guidance. Visit our website, www.pgplanning.org to learn how you can become engaged in shaping the future of your community.

Contact: Porlan Cunningham, M-NCPPC Public Affairs, 301-952-3038

TTY: 301-952-4366