Economic Impact Analysis will Help Charlestown's Future Growth

Published in the Cecil Whig | December 2024

CHARLESTOWN — As work continues for the new comprehensive plan, Charlestown officials recently released the results of an economic impact analysis, which was funded by the Upper Shore Regional Council.

USRC paid $10,000 for Rivers & Roads to conduct the study, which took four months to complete. This is the first wholesale update of the town’s comprehensive plan since 2008.

The study investigated potential impacts — positive and negative — of incoming commercial and residential construction, additional traffic and infrastructure. It includes the expansion of the Principio Business Park, the expansion of mining operations on the Stewart property, the addition of the I-95 interchange at Belvedere Road, and railroad expansion on the Susquehanna River and potential expansion of the MARC line to Newark, Del.

“This helps us chart a strategic plan of action for Charlestown,” said Bryan Lightner, town administrator. “We want to preserve our unique character and our quality of life.”

While Charlestown anticipates no sweeping changes in its core historic district, Lightner said the comprehensive plan — with help from the study — “will better work with other towns, the county and property owners.

“How can Charlestown capitalize on the growth that’s happening around us,” he said. “We want to be proactive.”

A spokesman for Rivers & Roads, based in Easton, Md., said this will give Charlestown the ability to walk the line between preservation and economic development.

“The Regional Economic Development Impact Analysis provides a roadmap for understanding how growth and investment can shape the future of the Town of Charlestown. This study brings a clear understanding and actionable insights of the opportunities that will directly benefit the people, families, and businesses that call this community home,” said Sam Shoge, Partner at Rivers & Roads. “We’re proud to support initiatives like this, which ensure that progress is both impactful and inclusive for years to come.”

Public workshops were held to allow residents to see the process and have input.

“We have another community workshop coming soon,” Lightner said. “Once we get more feedback it goes to Maryland Department of Planning for review, and then we’ll hold a public hearing.”