​​1997 Planning Legislation capitalizes on the state’s influence on economic growth and development. This law directs state spending to Priority Funding Areas (PFA's). PFA's are existing communities and places designated by local governments indicating where they want state investment to support future growth.

Growth-related projects covered by the legislation include most state programs that encourage or support growth and development such as highways, sewer and water construction, economic development assistance and state leases or construction of new office facilities.

The Priority Funding Areas law builds on the foundation of planning visions which were adopted as Maryland policy through 1992 legislation (and updated in 2009). Funding for projects in municipalities, other existing communities, industrial areas and planned growth areas designated by counties receive priority for state funding over other projects. Priority Funding Areas coordinate state and local government efforts to support economic development and new growth.

The following areas qualify as Priority Funding Areas:

• every municipality, as they existed in 1997;
• areas inside the Washington Beltway and the Baltimore Beltway;
• areas already designated as enterprise zones, neighborhood revitalization areas, heritage areas and existing industrial land;

The 1997 planning law recognizes the important role of local governments in managing growth and determining the locations most suitable for state-funded projects. Counties may designate areas as Priority Funding Areas that meet guidelines for intended use, availability of plans for sewer and water systems and permitted residential density. Areas eligible for county designation include existing communities and areas where industrial or other economic development is desired. In addition, counties may designate areas planned for new residential communities which will be served by water and sewer systems and meet density standards.

See Local Government Planning Frequently Asked Questions​ for more

Launch the Priority Funding Areas Interactive Map