Montgomery County Planning Department’s Westbard Sector Plan has received the Best Master Plan award at the Commercial Real Estate Development Association (CREDA) DC and Maryland Awards of Excellence Gala, held October 22 in Washington, DC.
Approved in 2017, the plan established a framework for transforming more than 23 acres of an aging commercial area in Bethesda into a mixed-use community featuring housing, retail, public spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streets.
The redevelopment has included new residential and commercial buildings, parks, wider sidewalks, bicycle facilities, and improvements to Westbard Avenue. Additional projects include environmental restoration along Willett Branch and new recreational spaces.
According to Montgomery Planning, the award recognizes both the original plan and its implementation, including efforts to improve walkability, reduce reliance on cars, and expand housing options. Development partners EYA, Greystar, and Regency Centers have contributed to implementing the plan, with additional redevelopment work continuing in the area.
