The genesis of the Poolesville Streetscape Plan began as early as 1990. While concept in nature, it was always valued as a tool to create a walkable, safe, and attractive downtown for pedestrians and vehicular travel alike. More attractive streetscapes also enhance economic development and bring about the small-town charm and sense of community everyone enjoys in Poolesville.

In 2005 and 2011 the plan was updated and adopted into the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. In 2018, the Commissioners tasked the Planning Commission with developing the concept plan to a more detailed, site plan. ARRO a streetscape engineering design firm was hired to assist the Town. Through a series of public meetings and community outreach efforts, the Plan was developed, as seen today, and was adopted by the Town Commissioners.

As the design process was underway, the Town was also in the process of taking ownership of Fisher Avenue from Elgin Road to Wootton Ave from the State. In many cases, State Highway regulations applied in busy urban areas do not always apply in more rural or small-town environments. As with several of the streetscape design features such as flashing crosswalk signs and raised intersections, they are not permissible for State owned roads. Poolesville leaders wanted to implement a streetscape without the design being overly influenced by others.

In early 2022, Town Staff assembled a grant package for the implementation of the Streetscape Plan and with the assistance of Congressman Trone and his team, the Town was awarded a $4,000,000.00 grant. 

Town Staff is currently working with the State Highway Administration completing the Initial surveying and construction drawings. The approvals to proceed to the construction phase come from both the State and several Federal agencies. It is anticipated that these processes could take up to 2 years to complete. If all goes well, construction could begin in Spring of 2025.

Click here for a look at the Plan.