Maryland DOT seeks developer for Bowie State station mixed-use plan

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has issued a request for proposals seeking a development partner to advance transit-oriented development (TOD) plans at MARC’s Bowie State University station in Prince George’s County. Proposals are due Oct. 14. 

The station is located on the MARC Penn Line, one of the region’s busiest commuter-rail lines, and near Maryland’s oldest historically Black university, MDOT officials said in a press release. 

A 4.6-acre, state-owned site near the station can be used to create a vibrant, mixed-use community centered on public transit and the growing university campus, they added. The goals of the TOD initiative include expanding affordable housing, unlocking long-term economic development, improving connectivity and enhancing access to transit in the area. 

The selected development team will deliver an initial project focused on affordable housing on the state-owned land and lead a comprehensive master planning process for the broader state-owned station area, MDOT officials said. The master planning process — which is supported by $1.5 million from the state’s transportation trust fund — will include evaluating/delivering long-term development opportunities and identifying implementation and funding strategies.  

The process also will aid in advancing key transit infrastructure improvements, such as an extended MARC platform, a new pedestrian bridge connecting the site to the university campus and improved bike and pedestrian circulation throughout the area, MDOT officials said.