Mission & Overview

Mission

Letter from the Executive Director

For the past four years, County Executive Jack B. Johnson has provided significant funding for the redevelopment of distressed properties. Investments in the established communities of the developed tier will leverage private funds for high-impact revitalization projects. Under the Administration’s guidance, the Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County has more than tripled in size, and now has net assets in excess of $54 million. The Redevelopment Authority has finally come into its own as the preferred vehicle for equity investments to jump-start economic development and stimulate the revitalization of areas that once offered little hope of advancement for residents.

As a result, areas that were once stigmatized as being “hot spots” of criminal activity, and therefore overlooked by developers and investors, are now emerging as some of the area’s best residential and retail markets. The Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County is leading the charge, ensuring that County-assisted projects meet the highest standards for architectural design, construction quality, and resident amenities. While the Authority assures that much of the new housing developed with County assistance is priced to be accessible to essential workers (such as police officers, teachers and health care workers), and other moderate-income households, we also make sure to take full advantage of each site’s potential with developments that lead the market and make a positive impact on surrounding property values.

As we prepare to break ground, by the end of the fiscal year 2008, for our signature project, a $300 million, mixed-used development on the 22-acre site of the old Suitland Manor apartments, we must begin to look into the future and identify new areas for our investments. We need to hear from each of you. Does your area need more affordable housing? More high-quality retail outlets? More office space or industrial employment centers? Are there any blighted properties in your area that are a barrier to investment and economic growth? Now is the time to approach your County and elected officials, and forge partnerships to implement the next phase of the Redevelopment Authority’s strategic plan. Please join us in building and maintaining a strong foundation for “Livable Communities.”

Sincerely,

Tommie Thompson

Overview

The Executive Director, along with the Deputy Director and the Associate Directors, serve as a management team, providing general guidance and advice to the Authority's staff. Other expert and special assistance is obtained through independent and consultant contractual arrangements.

The Redevelopment principles of community building guide the Redevelopment Authority's mission, core values, strategic plan and general operations. The Authority is committed to building stronger communities by supporting projects designed to enhance balanced growth, job creation and quality of life.

The Redevelopment Authority facilitates redevelopment through partnerships with other private and/or public-sector partners by:

• Acting as a catalyst for physical improvement projects through property assemblage, site preparation, technical assistance and financing programs;
• Serving as negotiator for property acquisitions and owner participation agreements because these are fundamental redevelopment tools; and
• Serving as facilitator for purchase and sale agreements involving other parties.

The Redevelopment Authority uses the basic critical rebuilding tools:

• Provide planning for community development and neighborhood revitalization;
• Implement and facilitate neighborhood improvements;
• Facilitate development and redevelopment of real estate;
• Provide technical assistance to strengthen local community development and other organizations; and
• Coordinate revitalization and redevelopment rebuilding efforts within Prince George's County.