Promoting development in activity centers near transit options is a major goal of RF. That doesn’t mean all development has to be in downtown D.C. or in Arlington. Smart growth can take place in many parts of the region including in Frederick one of metro Washington’s outer suburbs.

Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley has made increasing the amount transit-oriented development (TOD) in the state a priority. O’Malley’s plan includes development around 14 transit stations in both inner jurisdictions and outer jurisdictions in the Washington and Baltimore metro areas. However TOD around MARC stations in Frederick didn’t make the cut and planners there are trying to change that.

As part of the Governor’s push for TOD sites chosen for development get funding assistance from MDOT and other state agencies lifting the some of the initial financial burden for investment that can make big returns (economic and ecologic) in the long run.

O’Malley has correctly noted that “focusing future growth around our existing transit stations will contribute to our goal of creating walkable sustainable communities while preserving our open space.” Promoting TOD in Frederick will help meet many of RF’s Accessibility and Sustainability goals and prove that smart growth not sprawling large-lot development can be the future of the region’s outer suburbs.