Projects
ATHA is continually looking to expand and further develop sites of historical and cultural significance throughout Prince George County. Learn more about the projects we are involved with and explore examples of successful partnerships.
Boundary Expansion Feasibility Study
Starting in 2019, ATHA, Inc. undertook a study, with funding support from MHAA, to consider a potential boundary amendment in southern Prince George’s County.
As part of the survey, tours were conducted of historic, cultural, and natural resources sites throughout the area to meet with staff and to determine opportunities for connections to the heritage area’s stories and programming. With ATHA staff, the consultant group conducted interviews, site visits, and public meetings – meeting with hundreds of stakeholders.
Four cluster areas were identified as shown on the map below:
- Upper Marlboro, Clinton, Brandywine
- Aquasco, Eagle Harbor, Cedar Haven
- Accokeek, Fort Washington, Oxon Hill
- Fairmount Heights, Seat Pleasant, Suitland
What Happens Next?
The process for amending a boundary involves many steps before pursuing an official request to the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA). Steps include:
Outreach to Potential Partners
ATHA, Inc. is conducting outreach with elected officials of incorporated municipalities, representatives for unincorporated communities, Prince George’s County Schools officials, Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning staff, National Park Service staff and others representing natural, historic, and cultural resources.
Consider Administrative Impact
ATHA, Inc. will evaluate how an expanded boundary could impact the organization’s staff, budget, and governing structure. These considerations will determine a funding structure to include financial contributions from partners in the expanded boundary area, additions to the board of directors, and potential staff additions.
Determine Final Boundary Proposed Boundary
ATHA, Inc. will determine the most appropriate boundary amendment based upon outcomes from potential partner meetings and consideration of administrative impacts.
Add to Comprehensive Plan
MHAA requires local jurisdictions to amend their local comprehensive plan to incorporate those portions of the Certified Heritage Area management plan that apply to the affected jurisdiction.
Official Request to MHAA
ATHA, Inc. will submit an official request to MHAA for a Management Plan Update (Estimated 2023). MHAA staff will tour the area and host a public meeting to confirm a desire to join the heritage area. MHAA will then review the application and notify ATHA, Inc. of the decision.
Outreach to Potential Partners
ATHA, Inc. is conducting outreach with elected officials of incorporated municipalities, representatives for unincorporated communities, Prince George’s County Schools officials, Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning staff, National Park Service staff and others representing natural, historic, and cultural resources.
Consider Administrative Impact
ATHA, Inc. will evaluate how an expanded boundary could impact the organization’s staff, budget, and governing structure. These considerations will determine a funding structure to include financial contributions from partners in the expanded boundary area, additions to the board of directors, and potential staff additions.
Determine Final Boundary Proposed Boundary
ATHA, Inc. will determine the most appropriate boundary amendment based upon outcomes from potential partner meetings and consideration of administrative impacts.
Add to Comprehensive Plan
MHAA requires local jurisdictions to amend their local comprehensive plan to incorporate those portions of the Certified Heritage Area management plan that apply to the affected jurisdiction.
Official Request to MHAA
ATHA, Inc. will submit an official request to MHAA for a Management Plan Update (Estimated 2023). MHAA staff will tour the area and host a public meeting to confirm a desire to join the heritage area. MHAA will then review the application and notify ATHA, Inc. of the decision.Disclaimer: This project has been financed in part with state funds from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, an instrumentality of the State of Maryland. However, the contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority.
