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NEWS RELEASE

February 2, 2010

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County Executive Ulman’s Issues Statement on Passage of Council Bills 58 and 59

“Last night’s passing of Council Bills 58 and 59 is the culmination of six years of community dialogue and careful deliberation; and with its passage, the map to a reinvigorated Downtown Columbia has been drawn.

Working together, we have created a comprehensive master plan for the revitalization which will bring jobs and vitality to Downtown Columbia. This plan incorporates green development, environmental restoration, arts and culture, workforce housing, pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, new amenity areas, transit, and a renovated Merriweather Post Pavilion – all in a carefully phased development plan with legislated benchmarks to ensure that what has been promised will be delivered.

I would like to extend my thanks to the many citizens and community groups that have played a major role in the planning phase of this historic project; this plan would not be as comprehensive without their input. I must also extend a great deal of appreciation and thanks to the members of the Howard County Council; they have worked tirelessly on this complex issue which is so critical to the future of our community.

But this is just the beginning.

Tonight’s unanimous vote is the end of an extensive planning process but just the beginning of a dynamic 30 year plan.

“We have in our hands the opportunity to make our city—in our generation—the most livable, the most beautiful, and the most effective city in America.” -----James W. Rouse

Now, we have a roadmap to get there.”