An equitable framework guides a Maryland suburb from auto-centric to a cluster of inclusive transit-oriented communities
Central Avenue, situated east of Washington, DC, is a vital corridor linking Prince George’s County to the US capital. This auto-centric avenue is connected by residential neighborhoods and single-use developments but after decades of economic and racial inequities stemming from Jim Crow laws, growth along the avenue has stifled. Taking on this challenge, Prince George’s County is driving equitable growth into the area.
With a 14-year-old consolidated vision and ongoing planning efforts, Prince George’s County needed a bold, unified plan to create a dense, multi-modal, amenity-rich, active commercial corridor. They turned to us for help. Building on the avenue’s access to three Metrorail stations—Capitol Heights, Addison Road, and Morgan Boulevard—and civic, cultural, and sports centers, our Urban Places team is developing a planning and policy framework for future urban development along the corridor. We created three concept site plans that introduce mixed-use walkable activity centers around the rail stations. These plans feature a range of housing options and improved pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure within each station’s walkshed.
Informed by an extensive market study and a diverse community and stakeholder process, these plans will transform the disconnected, auto-oriented corridor into a cluster of vibrant, transit-oriented communities, while also supporting residential and commercial growth.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Prince George’s County, MD
John Bachmann, Senior Principal
I’m passionate about making vibrant, walkable cities that shrink our carbon footprint and improve the quality of life for everyone.
Jess Alexander, Principal, Urban Places
My focus—bringing together the best and brightest minds in an environment where the best design idea wins.
Jason Beske, Principal, Senior Urban Designer
My goal is to help communities create places of lasting value that are centered on people.
Astrid Mayak, Urban Designer
Design goes far beyond just the structure itself. It’s about the lives, stories, and moments that could unfold within those spaces.
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