Pike District Partnership Hires Eugene Cornelius as its First Executive Director

Per Pike District: The newly formed Pike District Partnership (PDP) hired Eugene Cornelius as its first executive director after an extensive nationwide search. In his role as executive director, which begins July 1, Cornelius will serve as the primary advocate and spokesperson for the Pike District and is tasked with fostering public-private partnerships, collaborative initiatives and membership growth while bolstering the mission of elevating North Bethesda as an economic engine of Montgomery County.
“We are fortunate to attract a proven team player with strong leadership capabilities and deep experience in economic development,” said PDP Interim President Matt Herrmann. “I firmly believe that Eugene has the personality and vision to work collaboratively with North Bethesda residents, businesses and property owners to ensure our organization provides the highest level of advocacy for our community.”

Cornelius brings more than 30 years of executive management experience in economic development, program management and strategic alliances, most recently as senior policy advisor for the Milken Institute in Washington, D.C. Mr. Cornelius previously held senior positions at the International Council of Small Business and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
“I am thrilled to be able to tap into my experience and entrepreneurial spirit to establish and lead the PDP in creating a prosperous and dynamic economic core here in North Bethesda,” said Cornelius. “We have a strong foundation on which to continue to establish this area as a prime location for advanced technology and biotechnology with new residential, shopping and cultural destinations.”

The Pike District Partnership was launched in 2022 to continue the mission of both former community advocacy organizations- the Friends of White Flint and the White Flint Development Advisory Committee- to support North Bethesda while also bringing together the business, entertainment, and residential components of a dynamic mixed-use urban submarket. Located just outside Washington, DC in Montgomery County, MD, the Pike District is the core of North Bethesda. With the successful Pike & Rose at the center and the recent roadway improvements, this area is quickly becoming a sustainable and walkable community with a mix of local and regional businesses and a variety of housing and transportation options with entertainment, recreation, shopping, and dining amenities.

The PDP received funding from the Montgomery County’s Emerging Business District grant program to use in executing on a vigorous marketing plan that includes business promotions, community events and placemaking and continue to focus on important issues that impact the community such as pedestrian safety and smart development, ensuring that the 2010 White Flint Sector plan stays true to its vision.

Driven by the core values of celebrating diversity, encouraging innovation, fostering entertainment, building community, and providing accessible transportation options, the PDP will focus on highlighting the vibrancy and economic development potential of the North Bethesda area.