Small-Scale, Local Production in Prince Georgeʼs County, MD

Abstract

Through their work with the National Center for Smart Growth at the University of Maryland (UMD), the Prince George’s County Planning Department commissioned this report from the university’s Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability (PALS). PALS works with local jurisdictions throughout Maryland to identify projects and problems that can be taught through university courses where students focus on developing innovative, research-based solutions. Small-Scale Local Production is the result of a graduate urban planning and studies seminar initiated with the intent to evaluate the manufacturing and maker ecosystem in Prince George’s County. Building upon insights gained from previous studies in Prince George’s County, Washington, DC, Montgomery County, and Baltimore City, the course evolved to focus on zoning policy, programmatic support, and real estate analysis. This report centers small, production-based businesses as part of an inclusive economic development strategy for the County.