Following a closed-session meeting, Bladensburg officials announced on Jan. 28 that they plan to stop their efforts to annex the Hospital Hill site.
The site developer warned that the project, expected to host 1,300 homes alongside retail space and a new medical office, could be negatively impacted by the annexation efforts, and both and Prince George’s had planned lawsuits against Bladensburg.Â
“Our intent is not to hinder development but to ensure that Bladensburg has a voice in a project that will have lasting positive regional impacts,†said Bladensburg Mayor Takisha James in a statement. “We are committed to fairness, collaboration, and advocating for the best interests of our community.â€
Delegate Ben Barnes (D-District 21) now plans to withdraw to limit annexation attempts of property owned by the county’s redevelopment agency.Â
Sen. Malcolm Augustine (D-District 47) and Delegate Julian Ivey (D-District 47) also introduced legislation to provide a $200,000 economic study for Bladensburg.
The Town of Cheverly called Bladensburg’s decision to halt their plans for Hospital Hill “a significant step forward†in a .
When Bladensburg initially announced annexation intentions, Cheverly council members previously spoke against their efforts and Mayor Kayce Munyeneh noted the time and effort the town put into securing the redevelopment.
“While there is still work to be done, this marks meaningful progress in the right direction,†Munyeneh said. “The voices of our residents have been heard, and we are continuing to push for solutions that reflect the best interests of our community.â€