St. Mary's County Board of Appeals denies Riverside Townhomes concept plan, cites safety and traffic concerns

Leonardtown, Md. — The St. Mary's County Board of Appeals voted unanimously March 27 to deny the concept site plan for the Riverside Townhomes, a proposed 42-unit townhouse development along Maryland Route 235, finding the proposal did not meet objectives of section 60.6 of the countycomprehensive zoning ordinance.

The board's decision followed extended testimony and debate over traffic impacts, school-bus access and site safety. After accepting the staff report, Rita Weaver, a member of the Board of Appeals, moved to disapprove the concept site plan; the motion was seconded and carried by the four voting members present. John Brown had recused himself because he previously sat on the Planning Commission when the project was considered.

Why it matters: The project was proposed for land zoned MXM, where higher-density residential is permitted. The applicant said the design follows zoning standards and that engineering and traffic professionals certified compliance with required tests. Opponents and several board members said operational safety at the nearby Route 235 intersection and school-bus stops were not adequately addressed by the plan and available mitigation.

Applicant revisions and mitigation offers: The applicant team presented an amended plan and several commitments made after…