Division of Community Development Commercial Revitalization
LONG BRANCH
Long Branch Task Force
Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan and the County Council recognized the unique needs of the Long Branch community and in 2003 appointed the Long Branch Task Force to make an in-depth examination of their community and make recommendations.The Task Force initially consisted of 26 voting members and 11 ex officio members for a term concluding May 31, 2005.
The objective of the Long Branch Task Force as defined in the enabling resolution is “to address the full range of issues affecting the quality of life in the Long Branch community, including the needed revitalization of the residential and commercial areas in Long Branch.It should work to achieve a healthy, stable and sustainable community.” “Strategies to be considered should address the needs of the diverse stakeholders and may include enhanced delivery of existing government programs; grants; job creation programs; tenant education and ownership groups; private public partnerships; assembly and redevelopment of existing properties; business improvement districts; business development; and neighborhood improvement programs.”This stated objective provides a broad canvas for the Long Branch Task Force.
The Long Branch Task Force chose to divide the research and plan development into four major areas:Economic & Commercial Development, Housing, Youth, Schools, Childcare and Enrichment and Safety.The Safety Work Group further separated their work into two areas, Personal Security and Pedestrian Safety.These work groups met monthly and reported progress at the monthly Task Force Meeting.Staff support to each work group is provided by liaisons who are county employees or performing county-contracted services.Primary staff support is provided by the Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA).
During its first two years the Long Branch Task Force accomplished a significant number of achievements.They:
Developed a common vision and agreed to speak with one voice.
Established four major work groups and three other specialized work groups.
Determined the Long Branch study area boundaries.
Conducted a community mapping forum.
Prepared the First Annual Report with recommendations.
Met with representatives of WashingtonAdventistHospital concerning a possible expansion in the Long Branch community.
Conducted a community tour of Long Branch for Task Force members.
Participated in the Annual Long Branch Unity Day Festival.
Supported and received upgrades to the Long Branch Community Pool.
Supported a police substation.
Supported a SoberingCenter public hearing.
Supported a Purple Line discussion.
Secured County funding for maintenance of public spaces.
Supporting funding with other community groups for safety improvements for Piney Branch Road.
Began work on a Business Association and achieved considerable interest from the business community to continue with the effort.
Conducted a survey of business owners.
Achieved a designation as an Enterprise Zone.
Initiated and developed a resident shopping survey conducted through the research firm of Hollander, Cohen and McBride.
Department of Housing and Community Affairs