TOD Plans Take Shape in Prince George's County

The historically car-dependent county is hoping the planned revitalization of the Blue Line Corridor will boost the local economy and help maintain affordable housing.

2 minute read

September 13, 2021, 5:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Arlington Cemetery Station

Tupungato / Shutterstock

In what Ethan Goffman calls "a radical break for a county with a history of developing in 'a spread out and automobile dependent' fashion," Maryland's Prince George’s County "has signed on to the transit-oriented development (TOD) revolution to boost its economy while helping the environment." According to the plan, "The Blue Line Corridor will become a major economic engine for the County by catalyzing development, creating jobs, and incentivizing the development of a sports and entertainment-branded corridor."

"The Blue Line would be the template for a much-needed economic boost for Prince George’s County that simultaneously helps the environment and maintains affordable housing." The plan "emphasizes business and economic development, crucial in a county with plenty of housing but relatively few jobs." Its authors hope it will attract large, institutional employers and raise the average annual salary in the area to a level closer to the rest of the D.C. region. "The plan’s second broad goal is to increase commercial tax collection by $100 million annually, enhancing much-needed local services. Third is increasing the population by 50,000 in areas near transit, including a mix of incomes and housing types."

"The plan’s fourth goal is preserving affordable housing and a diverse housing stock even in the midst of growth." The county also hopes to "increase food retail options in low-income areas to make fresh, healthy food widely accessible" and enhance "identifiable character" through public features and amenities.

"The plan is proactive on [the issue of displacement], calling for building 26,000 new residential units, 75% of which would be dedicated as affordable to households making less than 120% of the area median income," which could help fill the need for so-called 'missing middle' housing.

Thursday, September 2, 2021 in Greater Greater Washington

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of "Apartment for rent" sign in red text on black background in front of blurred building

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program

Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

April 21, 2025 - Housing Wire

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

April 23, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Ken Jennings stands in front of Snohomish County Community Transit bus.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series

The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

April 20, 2025 - Streetsblog USA

View of Washington state capitol dome in Olympia, Washington at golden hour.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap

A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

April 29 - Washington State Standard

Low view of Glendale Narrows section of Los Angeles River with concrete bottom and cloudy storm sky over head.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience

Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

April 29 - The Planning Report

Grandparents sitting on bench with young girl and boy, girl holding ball and boy holding ukelele.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan

As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.

April 29 - Source NM