Montgomery Planning has launched its first Community Planning Academy to help residents understand how land use decisions shape their daily lives. The Development Review Process Workgroup recommended the initiative to improve how the county reviews development proposals.
Planning influences where Montgomery County residents live, work, play, and connect. Yet the process can often feel complex, even for those invested in a project or neighborhood master plan. The new academy aims to change that.
The free course, launching in June 2025, invites 50 residents to join its first cohort. Participants will complete eight online modules and take part in activities like site visits, “Meet the Planner” office hours, and a graduation ceremony. Members will be compensated with a $150 gift card and are expected to provide feedback to improve the program.
What to Expect
Montgomery Planning developed the academy with the Montgomery County departments of Transportation and Permitting Services and the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice. The course is designed to make technical subjects like zoning, development review, and environmental planning more accessible. It includes videos, graphics, voiceovers, and downloadable summaries in multiple languages.
Montgomery Planning believes every resident should be able to contribute meaningfully to planning decisions. The academy strengthens that mission by connecting residents, planners, and decision-makers in a shared learning environment. The course complements existing opportunities for public input through planning board and county council processes.
The Development Review Process Workgroup, which proposed the academy, includes representatives from government agencies, developers, and the community. The group’s goal is to make planning more transparent and accessible. Learn more about the workgroup here.
The academy follows similar successful programs at Prince George’s Planning and in other Maryland jurisdictions. After the pilot, Montgomery Planning will open the course to the public in fall 2025.
Applications for the inaugural cohort are due by May 9. Learn more and complete the interest form online at the Community Planning Academy web page.
