Town staff updated the Planning Commission on several local projects.

Historic station building: Staff said the Maryland Historical Trust granted approval for plans to renovate the station building (the small drill shed), and they expect construction to begin around February. The project aims to convert the space for restaurant use while preserving historic features where feasible.

Streetscape work: A new phase of the downtown streetscape project is under county review and would improve the south end of Main Street (between Baldwin Drive and the Vine/distillery parking area), including parking-lot enhancements timed, if possible, for completion before the spring/summer event season.

Canary Building: The council approved a contract with a firm to begin deconstruction planning for the Canary Building at South Branch Park. Staff emphasized that deconstruction or removal is not imminent: survey work will begin soon, public outreach and hearings will be held, and preservation options will be considered if feasible; the building may be too deteriorated for full rehabilitation.

Schoolhouse Road subdivision: Staff reported the five-lot Schoolhouse Road subdivision, preliminarily approved in June, is forming a file number and advancing into the final plan process; the commission will review the final plan for consistency with prior preliminary approvals.

Staff encouraged the public to monitor county and town portals for project updates and for notices about upcoming outreach opportunities.