SILVER SPRING – With the historic nature and small-town character of Kensington remaining front and center, Montgomery County planners hope to revise the town’s sector plan in the coming months to revitalize the community with a mix of uses and pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly streets.
On Monday, September 15, planners will present to the Planning Board a draft scope of work for the Town of Kensington and Vicinity Sector Plan, which will amend the 1978 version. Planners recommend a comprehensive study of the area’s land uses and zoning that would cover the town as well as the West Howard Antiques District and the commercial area at Connecticut Avenue and University Boulevard.
A new Kensington, as envisioned by the planners, would feature neighborhoods with a mix of uses that encourage walking, bicycling and more vibrant public spaces. Revitalization would take place while preserving Kensington’s rich history and residential neighborhoods.
Among the possibilities highlighted in the scope of work are strategies to enliven the town center with well-designed streets and gathering spaces; strengthen sustainable concepts such as energy efficiency, water conservation and reduced carbon emissions through environmental guidelines; and connect neighborhoods to the town center with a network of sidewalks, paths and bike trails.
Planners propose to work closely with town officials throughout the process and involve members of the Coalition of Kensington Communities, an umbrella civic association, in developing recommendations. Planners have held two community meetings to identify residents’ land use concerns and gather ideas and will continue to seek input from the community as they ink the plan.
After planners finish their first draft, they will present it to the Planning Board beginning this winter. After the Board hosts a public hearing and work sessions, it will send its version to the County Executive and the Montgomery County Council for final consideration.
Planners develop master and sector plans to create a framework for each community designed to last 15 to 20 years. Those visions help planners and policy-makers – such as the Planning Board and County Council – develop land use strategies and decide on proposed development.
Learn more about the Kensington plan and view the draft scope of work.
WHO:
Montgomery County Planning Board
WHAT:
Review proposed Town of Kensington and Vicinity Sector Plan scope of work
WHEN:
Monday, September 15, approximately 6:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Park and Planning Headquarters
8787 Georgia Ave.
Silver Spring, MD