Forging a Business-Friendly Future: How Prince George’s County EDC is Empowering the Industrial Sector
By Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation
Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) continues to make strategic strides in supporting the industrial and warehousing business community through targeted initiatives and collaborative dialogue. Under the leadership of Business Development Specialist Jose Burnes, the EDC’s Industrial Advisory Board reconvened on December 11, 2024, for its second session—uniting leaders from public agencies, private developers, and utility providers to confront pressing challenges and unlock growth opportunities.
Addressing Industrial Market Realities
At the heart of the session was a candid assessment of the industrial real estate landscape in Prince George’s County. The board noted a growing inventory of smaller, outdated industrial buildings—many under 50,000 square feet—that lack the infrastructure needed for modern operations. Despite this, demand remains strong as rising rents compel businesses to seek affordable yet strategically located properties.
“Eighty percent of the industrial deals in the county are for spaces under 15,000 square feet,” noted a board member, underscoring the dominance of small-scale transactions. With proximity to workforce centers being a top priority, the County’s location within the highly desirable Metro DC market gives it a competitive edge—if the permitting process can keep pace.
Streamlining Permitting: A Top Priority
Unsurprisingly, the most urgent issue raised was the County’s permitting process. Stakeholders emphasized the need for increased predictability and speed to stay competitive with neighboring jurisdictions. Developers cited examples of permitting timelines stretching up to three years—even for modifications to existing buildings.
"Permitting and zoning certainty are the main priorities,” one participant emphasized. “We must make the County more desirable to invest in.”
Jose Burnes and the EDC team have taken these concerns to heart, advocating for procedural improvements across agencies such as the Department of Permitting, Inspections & Enforcement (DPIE) and Park and Planning. One actionable solution proposed during the meeting was a mock permitting process to identify and resolve bottlenecks within the system.
DPIE representatives responded in kind, highlighting resources such as DPIE Connect, a free project overview service, and their ongoing internal bi-weekly improvement meetings aimed at reducing delays. Additionally, the launch of Momentum, a software tool used to track permitting timelines, shows promise in creating data transparency and accountability.
Strengthening Utility Coordination
A recurring theme was the critical need for better coordination with utility providers like Washington Gas, WSSC, and Exelon. Delays in service connections and lack of communication from utility agencies were cited as roadblocks to timely development. Board members encouraged the EDC to serve as a liaison and strong advocate, helping to facilitate meetings and dialogue between developers and service providers.
As a next step, representatives from utility companies will be invited to future Industrial Advisory Board sessions—underscoring the EDC’s commitment to integrated, solution-oriented development.
Connecting Policy, Planning, and Investment
Beyond operational hurdles, the meeting also addressed broader systemic issues. These included the potential impact of emerging electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure regulations, funding shortfalls within Park and Planning (which is seeking support for 21 new positions), and the County’s $156 million budget deficit.
The EDC committed to increasing communication between stakeholders and agencies, including helping to distribute newsletters and resource updates from Park and Planning and DPIE. A poll will be distributed to schedule the next session in early 2025, with plans to invite County Councilmembers to join the discussion.
Building Toward a More Competitive Future
As industrial land becomes increasingly scarce throughout the Metro DC region, Prince George’s County stands at a critical juncture. The opportunity to attract new investment is clear—but only if developers can navigate a business environment that values efficiency, transparency, and support.
Under Jose Burnes’ leadership, the Prince George’s County EDC is championing that vision by bringing together the voices that matter—developers, public officials, utility providers, and entrepreneurs—to make tangible progress toward a more agile and business-friendly County.
The message from the December session was clear: Prince George’s County has the talent, the infrastructure, and the strategic location. Now, it’s time to ensure the systems that support business development are just as competitive.
