Prince Frederick residents face 42-minute commute amid stalled housing growth

During the recent Planning Commission meeting in Calvert County, Maryland, significant concerns were raised regarding the county's transportation infrastructure and housing development. The discussions highlighted the pressing issue of long commute times for residents, particularly in the Prince Frederick Census Designated Place (CDP), where the average commute is reported at 42 minutes. This figure positions Calvert County among the jurisdictions with the longest commute times in Maryland, which itself has the highest average commute in the nation.

The implications of these statistics are profound. As one commissioner pointed out, the county's infrastructure struggles to accommodate its growing population, leading to concerns that increasing housing density without improving transportation options could exacerbate existing traffic issues. The sentiment expressed during the meeting suggests a need for a comprehensive approach to urban planning that balances housing development with necessary infrastructure improvements.

In addition to commute concerns, the meeting addressed the county's growth trends. While Calvert County was noted as one of the fastest-growing counties in Maryland until 2010, growth has significantly slowed in recent years. However, since 2020, there has been a notable increase in housing developments, with over 800 townhouse and apartment units either under review, under construction, or recently completed. This raises questions about the types of housing being developed, as commissioners inquired about the absence of single-family dwellings in the current pipeline.

The discussions reflect a broader challenge facing Calvert County: how to manage growth sustainably while ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with population increases. As the Planning Commission continues to evaluate housing proposals and transportation needs, the outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of the county. The community will be watching closely as decisions are made that could impact daily life for residents in the years to come.