Patuxent Business Park is Southern Maryland’s first comprehensively planned business campus located in Lusby, Maryland. It was established in the early 2000s to provide space for light industrial, technology, and professional businesses, with the goal of creating jobs and expanding the county’s commercial tax base.
Where is the Maryland Business Ready Site Characterization grant match funding coming from?
What is the Calvert County Economic Development Authority (EDA)?
The Calvert County EDA was created via legislation through the Maryland General Assembly to undertake and support economic development activities countywide. It was created for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, developing, improving, operating and managing economic properties in the county. The EDA oversees management and land sales at the Calvert County Industrial Park and the Patuxent Business Park (PBP). They also provide recommendations to the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Maryland Economic Development Corporation on potential land sales and incentives for PBP.
What is a Site Characterization Study?
This study, funded by a $10,000 state grant matched by local funds, will:
Evaluate the development status of available lots in the park.
Determine what types of businesses the site can support.
Assign a “site readiness” score (Tier 1–5) to help attract private investment.
This is a planning tool, not a construction project. It helps us market the business park more effectively and make informed decisions.
Why is this study important now?
The site has been underutilized for years, and this grant gives us a chance to take a fresh, informed look at what types of businesses may succeed there. Benefits of the study include:
Supporting smart, sustainable development
Identifying potential environmental concerns early
Attracting quality businesses that create local jobs
Building a resilient local economy through strategic planning
Why has PBP been underutilized for so long?
The 2008 recession stalled private investment.
Shifting federal contractor policies limited intended users.
Development costs and restrictive covenants.
This grant-funded study will help remove some of these barriers and renew interest.
What kind of businesses are permitted in the PBP?
PBP is Zoned as Light Industrial and Mixed-Use District (I-1), whichsupports light manufacturing, processing, warehousing, and compatible commercial uses. PBP is governed by a completed list of Covenants and Restrictions. For more information refer to the PBP Covenants and Restrictions.
Is this leading to more townhomes or apartment development?
PBP is designated solely for light industrial and commercial purposes. Residential development such as townhomes, apartments, or neighborhoods are not permitted. The park’s focus is on attracting employers and creating jobs, not on housing development.
Will this increase traffic or harm the environment?
Because PBP is already a designated business park with infrastructure in place, development is expected to have minimal environmental impact. Traffic and stormwater plans are addressed at the time of development approval, and any new activity will be required to comply with state and local regulations.
How will this benefit Calvert County residents?
This project is focused on:
Attracting businesses that bring quality jobs to residents
Growing the commercial tax base, which helps reduce pressure on residential property taxes
Using existing land zoned for I-1 (Light Industrial/Mixed Use) rather than expanding into undeveloped or residential areas.