A MARC train arrives at the Seabrook stop in Maryland (MDOT Photo)
Maryland’s progress in Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) isn’t just about rails and roads — it’s about relationships. By coordinating across state, county and regional lines, we can turn shared goals into vibrant communities that align infrastructure, housing and economic growth.
Central to this effort is the Washington Suburban Transit Commission (WSTC), which serves as a vital link between the State, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) — and ensures that transit policy and planning in the region is a unified effort.
In 2024, the commission launched the Transit Planning and Strategy Study Fund. This initiative supports expert studies that advance transit topics important in suburban Maryland, including advancing TOD opportunities to spur economic growth and boost ridership.
Progress in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties
The current TOD study focuses on two high-potential areas:
- Seabrook MARC Station in Prince George’s County: Following the MDOT Penn Line Study, Seabrook was identified as a prime long-term opportunity. This new study fast-tracks development by bringing stakeholders together to solve barriers.
- The Brunswick Line in Montgomery County: Building on the MTA MARC Growth and Transformation Plan, this study creates the first-ever comprehensive vision for TOD along the Brunswick Line. After screening for the most “development-ready” stations, the team will recommend site strategies to turn public land into economic hubs.
Why This Matters
The study is a collaboration between WSTC and MDOT’s Office of Real Estate and Economic Development (ORED). By aligning study goals with MDOT’s development standards, Maryland is ensuring these projects move from the drawing board to construction as quickly as possible.
What’s Next?
The TOD Strategy Study officially kicked off in October and is slated for completion this spring.
For updates and detailed project information, visit the Washington Suburban Transit Commission website or follow their LinkedIn page.
Ryan Traher is a transit analyst with the Washington Suburban Transit Commission