Worcester County Comprehensive Plan Updates - 2026

Worcester County 2026 Comprehensive Plan - DRAFT -

WORCESTER COUNTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Worcester County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1102, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. The purpose of this hearing is to accept public comment regarding the proposed 2026 Worcester County Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Map.

A copy of the proposed planning documents are available to view on this webpage or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

Written comments may be submitted via mail at the above address, or via the following link: - CLICK HERE -,. Please note that comments received will be posted on the county website with names and addresses.

The plan may be updated to reflect additional feedback from the State and/or public comments. The Planning Commission will then make a recommendation on the adoption of the plan. A separate public hearing will be scheduled with the County Commissioners for adoption by resolution.

Vision Statement

Worcester County is committed to our diverse rural and coastal heritage and historical roots, as we strive to create an inclusive and secure community that offers ample opportunities for residents and visitors alike. We seek sustainable economic growth by supporting and recognizing the important role of agriculture and tourism in our local economy, while we work to preserve and protect our vital natural resources.

Planning Commission Meeting Files

Public Engagement Final Report 11/2023

Key Issues Cited in Public Feedback

Preserving Community Character – Focus on enhancing what already exists within Towns (infill) as well as building community through the support for small businesses.

Loss of Natural Features – Encourage the preservation of farmland, waterways, and open space, benefitting residents as well as the environment overall.

Retention of Local Businesses – There is a need for pedestrian walkways and bikeways for accessibility – encouraging walkable communities and downtown areas would allow for smaller businesses to successfully remain open. More businesses would encourage more full-time residents.

Season Traffic/Congestion – Adequate infrastructure would allow for the potential for more full time residents, as well, as current infrastructure was not designed to handle the current loads.

Too Much Growth/Growth Pressure – The pressure to allow for sprawl is something that residents would like to see handled responsibly and with an organized plan.

School Facilities/Education – Communication between local governments and the schools is a concern. Necessary funding for materials and support staff will need to be supported at a government level.

Loss of Farmland – There is a need for a focused approach to sprawl and development through a Comprehensive Plan.

Affordability of Housing – Concern is growing for those who may not be able to afford to continue to stay within the County after graduation, etc. because of the lack of housing available to them.

Sea Level Rise – Concern for the next 10-20 years and the significant issues this could cause if it is not addressed now.

Comprehensive Plan Development Schedule

April 2024: Planning Commission Meeting
- Worcester County Vision Work Session

May 2024: Planning Commission Meeting
- Finalize Vision Statement and Project Schedule

June 2024: Planning Commission Meeting
- Draft Chapters 1 and 2 (Introduction and County Profile)

August 2024: Planning Commission Meetings
- Draft Goals and Objectives.

October 2024: Planning Commission Meetings
- Draft Chapter 3 (Community Facilities)

November 2024: Planning Commission Meetings
- Draft Chapter 5 (Housing)

December 2024: Planning Commission Meetings
- Draft Chapter 7 (Natural Resources and Sensitive Areas)

February 2025: Planning Commission Meetings
- Draft Chapter 6 (Economic Development and Tourism)
- Draft Chapter 8 (Transportation)

March 2025: Planning Commission Meetings
- Discussion on Land Use and Water Resources Element process.

April 2025: Planning Commission Meetings
- Presentation on the health and management of the Coastal Bays - Dr. Bill Dennison, Vice President for Science Application
- Draft Land Use Map review
- Draft Growth Area Maps

May 2025: Planning Commission Meetings
- Water Resources Element (Review)

July 2025: Planning Commission Meetings
- Water Resources Element (Review)

September 2025:
- Review Draft Water Resources Element, Draft Fisheries Element and Draft Land Use Chapter and Maps

October 2025:
- October 7th County Commissioners Joint work session with planning commission reviewing the following chapters Draft Community Facilities Element, Draft Economic Development and Tourism Element, Draft Transportation Element
- PowerPoint Presentation Download
- Work Session Packet Download
- October 21st County Commissioners Joint work session with planning commission reviewing the following chapter Water Resource Element.

November 2025:
- November 4th County Commissioners Joint work session with planning commission reviewing the following chapters Natural Resources, Fisheries and Agriculture.
- November 18th County Commissioners Joint work session with planning commission reviewing the following chapters Land Use and Housing

January 2026:
- Planning Commission work session on all updated draft chapters.

March 4, 2026:
- Submission of the draft Plan and Land Use Map for the 60-day review with the State of Maryland.

Spring 2026:
- Public Hearing with the Planning Commission.

Summer 2026:
- Public Hearing with the County Commissioners.
- Adoption of the 2026 Comprehensive Plan.