HAGERSTOWN – Washington County released its 2026 State of the County video on Feb. 3, showcasing key accomplishments from 2025 and outlining priorities for the milestone year as the county and the nation mark their 250th anniversaries.
Hosted by County Administrator Michelle Gordon and featuring narration from various county commissioners, the annual presentation opens with Gordon noting the anniversary’s dual significance.
“As we approach Washington County’s 250th anniversary and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I am reminded of the rich history and resilience of our local community,” she said. “This monumental anniversary gives us an opportunity to look back on all that we’ve accomplished together as a community and to look forward to continued progress in the future.”
The video reviews around five priority areas for responsible investment of taxpayer dollars: infrastructure, public safety, economic development, human services and education. Together, they underscore the county’s commitment to service, efficient delivery of services through dedicated staff and partnerships and preparation for long-term stability, Gordon said.
The fiscal 2026 budget, approved in May 2025, totals $506 million, with $394.2 million in operating funds and $111.8 million for the capital improvement plan. The general fund allocation emphasizes core needs: 43% to education, 29% to public safety, 7% to capital, 4% to transfers, 3% to courts, 2% to state obligations and 12% to other areas.
Officials described this as reflecting “responsible fiscal management while prioritizing education, public safety, job creation and economic growth.”
Infrastructure advances
Infrastructure featured prominently, with 2025 marked by the completion of high-impact projects. The Halfway Boulevard extension opened to traffic on Dec. 16, connecting Downsville Pike to Greencastle Pike and enhancing mobility.
Hagerstown Regional Airport reported record growth, including a 48% increase in passenger volume from 2022 levels, surpassing 90,000 operations, more commercial flights, and recognition such as Allegiant Air’s Customer Experience Excellence Award. Upgrades included terminal curb renovations, expanded parking, airfield improvements, and new aircraft displays, including an A-10 Warthog.
The Rural Land Preservation Program neared its 43,000-acre goal, preserving over 1,600 acres in 2025 across locations like Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Keedysville and Williamsport.
Other efforts included resurfacing 33 miles of roads, replacing bridges and culverts, stormwater projects, transit expansions (nearly 400,000 passenger trips and a new app) and water and sewer upgrades, such as the North End Flow Transfer Project, which shifted 1,300 accounts to county management.
Public safety enhancements
Public safety initiatives addressed critical gaps and introduced innovations. The Division of Emergency Services launched whole-blood transfusion capability in November 2025 for pre-hospital trauma care and began EMS transport at the Rohrersville Fire Station, a 20-year priority, which responded to eight calls in its first eight days. Workforce expansions transitioned volunteer EMS staff to county employment, with more planned.
The Public Safety Training Center logged over 9,700 training hours and began construction on a four-story fire-training burn building, scheduled for completion in spring 2026.
The sheriff’s office hired 29 new personnel, handled 90,000 calls for service, made 3,626 arrests, and 14,000 traffic stops, and expanded thermal drone use for searches.
The Emergency Communications Center processed nearly 183,00 calls, including a peak surge on Easter evening, and introduced WashCoMD Alerts. Community events like the Emergency Preparedness Expo drew strong participation.
Economic development momentum
Economic efforts delivered substantial results, with 66 projects totaling $1.565 billion in capital investment over 24 months. Forty-three ongoing projects are projected to add nearly $700 million and about 900 jobs.
Fort Ritchie’s revitalization advanced with SJM Corporation’s 35,000-square-foot medical device facility, expected to create 300 positions. Foreign Trade Zone 255 was activated by Stanley Black & Decker. Agriculture highlights included Crownstone Farm as the 2025-2026 Farm of the Year and $100,000 in innovation grants to five projects.
Human services and community engagement
Parks and Recreation offered 222 programs, engaging over 5,000 participants, including 1,500 children in summer camps, and completed facility upgrades such as new pavilions and resurfaced amenities. More than $3.5 million in grants supported nonprofits and public safety.
The Public Relations and Marketing Department promoted the 250th anniversary through events such as the ice cream trail and a parade float, and by planning the July 4 capstone celebration at the Agricultural Education Center, featuring entertainment, a kids’ zone, vendors, games, a drone show and fireworks.
Education and workforce focus
Education, the top-funded category, saw a $10.4 million increase for the Board of Education. The third annual Career Expo connected 1,581 participants with employers. The county contributed $18.6 million toward the new Downsville Pike Elementary School. Programs like Character Counts and Youth Meritorious Awards supported student development.
The video wrapped with reflections on 181 new county hires, employee initiatives, and a commitment to a vibrant future. “Guided by 250 years of progress and forward-thinking momentum, we will continue shaping a county that is vibrant, connected and prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow,” Gordon concluded.
