Applications now being accepted for Smart Growth America's 2015 free technical assistance workshops. Now in its fourth year, this program helps communities find solutions to local development issues, so that participating communities are able to grow in ways that benefit residents and businesses while protecting the environment and preserving a sence of place. Over 50 communities have already received Smart Growth America's assistance through this program.  For additional information.

The Maryland Scenic Byways Program Advisory Committee has published a strategic plan to integrate Maryland's Scenic Byways to the surrounding landscape. Maryland Scenic Byways: Moving Forward Toward Sustainability guides and supports the system of scenic byways as an integral part of Maryland's transportation network.  As part of the plan, the State Highway Administration (SHA) is installing new signs for the state and national routes to meet modern traffic standards. For local agencies and advocates, the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) and SHA developed the Scenic Byways Resource Protection Application, a GIS-based mapping tool to inventory protected, vulnerable and threatened resources along Maryland's Scenic Byways.

To stay abreast of comp plan reviews throughout Maryland, check MDP's Local Comprehensive Plan page regularly.