'Innovation District' Becomes Heart Of Columbia's Gateway Master Plan

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Columbia's Gateway preferred master plan, recently unveiled by county officials, has been described as an "innovative ecosystem designed to fuel sustainable job creation, foster long-term economic growth and attract the brightest minds in research, entrepreneurship and technology."

The "innovation district," prioritizes a phased mixed-use redevelopment strategy with a focus on increasing density, enhancing connectivity and creating spaces that inspire collaboration.

"Gateway is uniquely positioned to be the region’s nerve center for cutting-edge research, pioneering ideas and entrepreneurial ventures for a global market. Gateway – as a premier innovation district – aims to attract the best and brightest minds from a variety of industries. We’re going beyond the constraints of a traditional business park – we’re building a workplace for the future," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball.

Spanning approximately 1,000 acres, as an innovation district, the "gateway of the future" reimagines the traditional business park model to create a dynamic, mixed-use environment that encourages collaboration, innovation and creative thinking. By integrating a combination of shared facilities, like an “Innovation Hub,” flexible office spaces, residential areas and strategic employment opportunities commercial, the new district will serve as a hub for diverse industries and a catalyst for bold new ideas, officials said.

The redevelopment also integrates the Woonerf, a pedestrian-priority zone designed to bring people together in shared spaces. A key public amenity designed to support mixed-use redevelopment and business attraction, the Woonerf will serve as a connecting spine to the innovation district.

Incorporating a range of building types, from flexible workspaces to larger office developments, the envisioned innovation district will attract businesses of all sizes in cutting-edge industries and enhances visibility.

The proposed transportation within the district prioritizes walking and cycling, and connects to existing paths and trails beyond Gateway. This includes utilizing the CSX rail line – a 3.1-mile abandoned railroad spur as a connection to and from the innovation district.