In 2021, the County Council requested proposals from the Planning Board to address two areas of concern:  a lack of diverse types of housing, and a history of housing inequity.  The Planning Board developed the AHSI, whereby areas zoned for single-family housing would be opened to redevelopment with up to 4 units on a previously single-family lot.  This zoning change would apply to 82% of Montgomery County.  (Whether that is percentage of area or number of lots, I do not know.)  In addition, Kensington Estates falls within a Priority Housing District because the Kensington MARC station is less than a mile away.  Parking requirements are lowered within those districts.  Multiple units could be built “by right,” without zoning exceptions and Planning Board review.  The Council has held listening sessions to gather community feedback.  Legislation is not yet proposed.  For more information, please visit the MoCo Planning Board site, or read the brief articles on the Parkwood Residents Association (PRA) news link (parkwoodresidents.org).

What can you do?

• Follow developments on the listserv.
• Volunteer on the Development Committee to monitor MoCo and Planning Board activity.