Planning in Progress

by Kristen E. Humphrey, MLA, Local Assistance and Training Planner 

As part of our ongoing commitment to the principles of smart growth, which encourage redevelopment on brownfields, the Maryland Department of Planning (Planning) is excited to present the inaugural Maryland Statewide Brownfield Conference!  

The conference will provide a forum for local governments, consultants, attorneys, developers, and non-governmental organizations to learn and share information about brownfields and to promote increased awareness about the processes and technologies that move brownfields toward beneficial reuse in Maryland’s communities.   

Over two half-days this fall, November 16-17, the conference will cover the fundamentals of brownfields and presenters will delve into the more technical aspects of brownfield assessment and redevelopment. Presentations will include topics such as: federal and state technical and financial assistance options; siting solar facilities on brownfields; cleanup challenges at former dry-cleaning facilities; and local government brownfield case studies.  

While the conference will be conducted virtually via GoToWebinar, attendees will have opportunities for in-person engagement by participating in brownfield tours organized across the state, followed by social gathering and networking events at nearby restaurants or local breweries. Optional wellness activities will be offered at the start of the day to invigorate attendees including a walk in a local park or a virtual yoga session.

So, be sure to register for Maryland’s first-of-its-kind conference today and be a part of this growing redevelopment trend! 
 

To learn more about Planning’s Inaugural Statewide Brownfield Conference, please contact Sylvia Mosser, AICP, Resource Conservation Planner at sylvia.mosser@maryland.gov or (410) 767-4487, and be sure to follow Planning Practice Monthly for announcements and updates.