The Montgomery County Planning Department was awarded a $100,000 Maryland Department of General Services FY27 Capital Grant to develop a streetscape improvement plan for downtown Damascus, a significant step toward creating a safer, more connected, and economically vibrant Main Street corridor.
The grant, which was part of MD State Senate Bill 283, will enable Montgomery Planning to conduct community engagement, planning, transportation analysis, and design work to prepare for future streetscape improvements in the heart of Damascus. The plan will evaluate potential improvements such as wider sidewalks, landscaping, street trees, pedestrian lighting, seating areas, and bicycle accommodations. The project will emphasize accessibility, safety, and sustainability, helping to create a Main Street where residents and visitors will want to stay and gather and businesses can thrive.
The Damascus Streetscape Improvement Plan is taking place in conjunction with the department’s work on the Damascus Main Street Sector Plan Amendment, which launched in 2026. Together, the Damascus Streetscape Improvement Plan and the sector plan amendment will establish a coordinated vision for Damascus and guide future phasing, capital investment, and improvements to help with the revitalization of the downtown core.
Planning staff will collaborate with the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, the Maryland State Highway Administration, and a consultant team to conduct community engagement and planning and design work to develop recommendations for streetscape, infrastructure, connectivity, and public space enhancements. The Montgomery County Planning Board is expected to consider approval of the Streetscape Improvement Plan as part of the sector plan amendment process.