Maryland and Prince George’s County have reached an agreement with developers that will allow construction of the final phase of the Intercounty Connector to go forward.
The agreement includes ICC access to a planned 2,200-acre mixed-use development in Laurel called Konterra that is expected to create 30,000 jobs and bring nearly $100 million in tax revenue to the county and state.
Gov. Martin O’Malley and Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker made the announcement in Laurel on Tuesday.
“All three parties involved were willing to think outside the box and look at the long-term potential for job growth and economic activity in northern Prince George’s County,” O’Malley said.
The Maryland Department of Transportation and Prince George’s County have been negotiating with the owners of Konterra to acquire 240 acres needed for the construction of the ICC for nearly four years, with the state threatening to seize the land through eminent domain.
“Under the terms of the agreement, the owners of Konterra agreed to donate approximately 240 acres of land required to build the ICC, plus approximately 80 acres needed for highway improvements in the area,” the news release said. Highway improvements include several new interchanges with existing roads and construction of a new road between Old Gunpowder Road and the ICC.
Konterra, located off Interstate 95 near Route 198, will include a mixed-use town center, upscale retail and hospitality venues, technology campuses, educational institutions, and residential and business communities.
