Upper Marlboro Rallies Around Historic School

In September, Upper Marlboro officials learned of the county's plan to demolish a historical school at the corner of Elm Street and Governor Oden Bowie Drive.

According to a Gazette article, Stephen Sonnett, president of the Upper Marlboro Board of Town Commissioners, said he and other community leaders hadn't been consulted on the issue.

The Old Marlboro Elementary School building is listed on the county's historic registry, which means it's protected for exterior property changes until  permission is granted by the Park and Planning Commission.

"The replacement of this important historic landmark with such a large structure would negatively impact neighboring homes on Elm Street and Old Mill Road, as well as the historic William Beanes gravesite," according to the Town of Upper Marlboro website. "It could also compound already congested traffic patterns, and overall, diminish what’s left of the unique character of the Town of Upper Marlboro."

Since then, Sonnett and others have sought answers from the county.

"People have expressed concern that the proposed plan would threaten the quality of life in the community and take away from the overall character of the town," according to the Town of Upper Marlboro's November newsletter. 

On Nov. 17, The Gazette ran another story about the school's possible demolition, saying that residents are opposed to the county's plans. According to the Town of Upper Marlboro's website, developer Alt Breeding Schwarz has posted renderings for a proposed Family Justice Center at the site.