PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Calvert County has received a Site Characterization Grant through the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program to advance the development of Patuxent Business Park. Announced on July 10, 2025, the grant will fund a professional assessment to evaluate the site’s readiness for industrial or commercial use, positioning Patuxent Business Park to attract private investment.
The grant provides up to $10,000, matched 1:1 by local funds, for a total project cost of up to $20,000. These funds will cover the hiring of a site development professional to assess Patuxent Business Park’s current condition and place it on a Tier 1 through 5 Site Readiness Scale. This evaluation will identify necessary improvements to make the park competitive for businesses seeking shovel-ready sites.
Purpose of the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program
Launched by Gov. Wes Moore in December 2024, the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program aims to increase the number of shovel-ready sites across the state. Administered by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, the program collaborates with local and state agencies to provide financial and marketing support. For Patuxent Business Park, the grant is a critical step in preparing the site for economic growth.
Beyond site assessments, the program supports infrastructure upgrades, environmental remediation, and other development needs. For such projects, a 3:1 or higher local funding match is required, ensuring strong community investment in sites like Patuxent Business Park.
Patuxent Business Park’s Strategic Role
Located in Lusby, Patuxent Business Park spans 144 acres and is zoned for light industrial and commercial use. Its proximity to major highways and the Port of Baltimore makes it an attractive location for businesses. The site characterization will provide a detailed analysis of Patuxent Business Park’s utilities, environmental conditions, and zoning compliance, helping Calvert County prioritize upgrades to attract industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or technology.
Calvert County’s Economic Development Strategy
Calvert County’s receipt of the grant underscores its commitment to economic development. By investing in Patuxent Business Park, the county aims to create jobs and diversify its economy, which is home to 93,841 residents and major employers like the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. The county’s Economic Development Department has prioritized Patuxent Business Park as a key site for growth, aligning with Maryland’s goal of fostering business-ready locations.
The site characterization will guide future investments, potentially including water and sewer expansions or road improvements, to elevate Patuxent Business Park’s readiness tier. Higher-tier sites are more likely to attract private developers, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits for the region.
Looking Ahead
The assessment of Patuxent Business Park is expected to begin in fall 2025, with findings informing a development timeline. Calvert County will leverage the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program’s marketing support to promote Patuxent Business Park to potential investors, highlighting its strategic location and growth potential.
For more details, visit the Patuxent Business Park webpage.
