HAGERSTOWN – A major proposal to transform one of the city’s largest undeveloped parcels -approximately 112 acres – into a mixed-use development is sparking discussions and concerns among city officials, developers and community residents.
During the city council session on Tuesday, March 25, Steven Bockmiller, city zoning administrator, introduced the plan. The project, known as the Dow Farm along Landis Road, aims to create a vibrant community combining residential, commercial, industrial and green spaces, while emphasizing a walkable, mixed-use village environment.
However, the Hagerstown Planning Commission expressed significant reservations regarding the project’s residential and commercial development balance. They also questioned the assurance that a crucial road connecting the development to the Dual Highway would be completed in a timely manner. Due to these concerns, the commission has recommended denial of the proposal.
Representatives for the developers, Paul Flynn, Matt Stair and Gordon Poffenberger, strongly advocated for the project during the hearing. Flynn highlighted the economic benefits and substantial expansion to the city’s tax base, stressing that millions of dollars had already been invested in acquiring necessary properties for the project’s infrastructure, specifically the road linking to Dual Highway.
“The momentum behind this project is strong, with significant investment already committed,” Flynn stated, adding, “the connection to Dual Highway isn’t merely planned – it’s financially secured and critical to the project’s success.”
Stair emphasized the project’s urbanistic design, noting the proposed central green space and walkable storefronts with residential units above. He explained that such designs aim to foster community interaction, connectivity,and economic viability.
However, public comments at the hearing raised pointed concerns. Residents voiced fears about existing overcrowding in local schools, increased traffic congestion, inadequate infrastructure, pedestrian safety and potential delays in emergency services due to anticipated traffic pressures.
Travis Canode, a local resident, questioned the necessity of additional housing given the limited infrastructure, highlighting potential impacts on school capacity and safety risks for pedestrians. Another resident, Javid Aam, expressed concerns about the development’s direct impact on traffic flow and community resources.
City officials said additional discussions and public input sessions are planned, with the record remaining open for further comments. The mayor and city council will review the feedback and continue deliberating in upcoming meetings.
