The Maryland Preservation Plan - 2005 - Maryland Historical Trust

Statewide Priorities for Heritage Resource Conservationpriority when vying for State funding for roads and highways, business developmentfinancing and economic development, and most housing programs.Almost all of Maryland’s many historic communities contain under- orunused historic buildings that could be renovated to provide housing andbusiness locations for new residents and business-owners. In fact, 85% ofMaryland’s inventoried historic properties are located in the State’s incorporatedcities and towns. Notably, the repair and improvement of infrastructure inthese areas is less costly than the construction or extension of new infrastructureto scattered rural developments. By directing growth back to establishedcommunities that provide both a variety of housing options and an adequateinfrastructure investment, important agricultural and scenic properties will beprotected for the enjoyment of future generations.B. Economic Development and Heritage TourismEssential to the State’s well-being in the twenty-first century is itssustained economic vitality. While some communities are currently facing a risein population and with it an increasing demand for employment opportunitiesand services, others must address the result of decreasing investment and outmigration.Economic development is a priority shared by both public agencies andprivate organizations. Both have developed programs to assist commercialenterprise. The Main Street Maryland Program, operated out of the MarylandDepartment of Housing and Community Development, offers technical assistanceaimed at improving the economy, appearance, and image of traditionaldowntown business districts. The Maryland Department of Business andEconomic Development (DBED) and its Office of Tourism Development workto attract new businesses and visitors to the State. These programs capitalizeon local heritage preservation efforts.One of the methods by which the State hopes to increase revenues isthrough the development of heritage tourism. The wide array of historic communities,historical and cultural museums, and scenic and natural resources thatabound in Maryland are assets that can contribute to economic well-being ofMARYLAND’S POPULATION GROWTH1980 - 2030Maryland’s populationhas increased steadilyand rapidly in recentdecades, and projectionsindicate thegrowth trend will continue.1980 2000 2015 2030MARYLAND 4,216,933 5,296,486 6,060,800 6,446,400Baltimore Region 2,173,989 2,512,431 2,764,350 2,847,550Lower Eastern Shore 145,240 186,608 214,000 230,200Southern Maryland 167,284 281,320 375,050 442,300Upper Eastern Shore 151,380 209,295 253,350 278,450Washington Suburban 1,358,916 1,870,133 2,201,250 2,385,950Western Maryland 220,124 236,699 252,800 261,950Figures prepared by the Maryland Department of Planning, Planning Data Services, May 2004.7