Montgomery Matters: Planning staff present draft comprehensive plan, set next public‑review steps

Montgomery County planning staff brought parts 1 and 2 of the draft comprehensive plan, "Montgomery Matters," to the Board of Supervisors during a Jan. 28 work session, describing extensive public engagement and a shorter, more user‑friendly document intended to guide land‑use and capital decisions.

Planning Director Bree said the draft is intended to be readable and practical: the team aims to keep the plan under 200 pages and to rely heavily on graphics so the document is easier for residents and developers to use. Justin, the project lead, told the board the process included more than 1,100 participants, multiple open houses, and targeted stakeholder and steering committee meetings.

Key plan elements include identifying two growth areas (a Mid‑County "Merrimack" area and the 177 corridor toward Radford called "Bethel"), updated village and rural tiers, farm preservation, an emphasis on trails and recreation, and a zoning ordinance update to translate plan goals into regulatory tools. Staff described a tracking system that will list goals, responsible departments and five‑year priority actions to measure progress.

Bree and Justin said VDOT transportation review is expected within about 30 days and that parts 3 and 4 of the draft will be presented at the Feb. 9 work session; planning commission public hearings are planned for March 11 and the board's public hearing is scheduled for March 23. Staff also said additional village meetings are scheduled in April and May to finalize small‑area plans and the future land‑use map for a June return.

Supervisors praised staff engagement and suggested minor edits (graphic corrections, partner name updates); staff agreed to incorporate the edits and to continue outreach before the formal public hearing cycle.