Prince George’s hospital targets April groundbreaking for long-awaited women’s health pavilion

Luminis Health Women’s Pavilion Signals Major Healthcare Investment in Prince George’s County

Prince George’s County is poised to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure with a major new investment in women’s health—further positioning the County as a growing hub for medical services and long-term community wellness.

A recent Washington Business Journal report highlights that Luminis Health is preparing to break ground on a long-awaited women’s health pavilion at Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham. As reported by the journalist and the Washington Business Journal, the project represents a significant expansion of healthcare access in the County, particularly in maternal and obstetric services.

The hospital is “preparing to break ground on a long-awaited women’s health pavilion,” marking a major step forward for local care access.

The development is expected to introduce inpatient obstetrics services—including labor, delivery, and postpartum care—for the first time at the facility, addressing a longstanding gap in the County’s healthcare system.

The pavilion will bring “labor, delivery, and postpartum services” to the hospital as part of a broader expansion of care.

Strategic Impact for Prince George’s County

Beyond healthcare, the project represents a significant economic and workforce investment in Prince George’s County:

  • Healthcare access expansion: Reduces the need for residents to leave the County for essential maternal care

  • Job creation: Large-scale healthcare developments drive both construction and long-term clinical employment

  • Economic stability: Strong healthcare infrastructure supports population growth and business attraction

Once operational, the facility is expected to handle up to 2,000 deliveries annually—reinforcing its role as a key regional healthcare asset.

The project is designed to expand “comprehensive, community-based care” in Prince George’s County.

A Broader Economic Development Signal

This investment reflects a larger trend: healthcare infrastructure is a critical driver of economic competitiveness. Regions with strong, accessible care systems are better positioned to attract residents, retain talent, and support business growth.

For Prince George’s County, the Luminis Health pavilion underscores a clear takeaway—strategic investments in healthcare are not just about services, they are about building a more resilient and attractive economy.

As the County continues to prioritize growth across key sectors, projects like this demonstrate how infrastructure, health outcomes, and economic development are increasingly interconnected.

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Explore the full report from the Washington Business Journal for more details on the project and its timeline:

READ FULL STORY HERE

Venture X Brings First Flexible Office Space to Prince George’s County, Strengthening Innovation Economy

Prince George’s County continues to build out its entrepreneurial infrastructure with the introduction of its first flexible office and coworking space—marking a strategic investment in the County’s innovation ecosystem.

According to a recent article published by Franchising.com, Venture X College Park, developed in partnership with the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) and the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce, will officially open in the Discovery District, creating new opportunities for startups, small businesses, and growing companies.

“Venture X College Park represents the kind of entrepreneurial infrastructure that helps businesses launch, scale, and thrive in Prince George’s County,” said Ingrid S. Watson, President & CEO of PGCEDC.

The facility represents more than a workspace—it is a strategic asset designed to accelerate business growth. Featuring private offices, coworking areas, conference rooms, and collaborative environments, the space is built to support companies at every stage of development while fostering connectivity and resource access.

Located within the University of Maryland’s Discovery District, the development sits at the intersection of research, talent, and industry—positioning Prince George’s County as a competitive hub for innovation-driven businesses.

“Spaces like this foster collaboration, innovation, and opportunity by bringing together entrepreneurs, startups, and growing companies in one supportive environment,” Watson added.

Owned and operated by entrepreneur Moniesha Jackson Shorter, the concept emphasizes community as a core driver of business success—an increasingly critical factor in today’s economy.

The space was created to provide “not just an office, but a true community of support” for entrepreneurs and small business owners, the article notes.

Economic Impact for Prince George’s County

The addition of Venture X College Park signals a broader shift in how economic development is being delivered:

  • Business formation & scalability: Flexible office environments lower barriers to entry for startups and early-stage companies

  • Talent retention: Proximity to the University of Maryland strengthens pipelines between education and industry

  • Innovation clustering: Concentrating entrepreneurs and businesses in one ecosystem accelerates collaboration and growth

This aligns with Prince George’s County’s long-term strategy to create sustainable, innovation-driven economic growthby investing in infrastructure that supports entrepreneurs beyond initial launch.

The takeaway is clear: modern economic development is not just about attracting companies—it’s about building environments where they can grow.

Read the Full Story

Explore the full article from Franchising.com for more on the Venture X College Park opening and its impact:

READ FULL STORY HERE

Drive-thru coffee chain 7 Brew eyes Prince George’s for first D.C.-area location

Prince George’s County continues to position itself as a destination for national retail expansion, as a fast-growing drive-thru coffee brand targets the county for its first location in the Greater Washington region.

A recent Washington Business Journal report highlights that Arkansas-based 7 Brew Coffee is exploring a site in Prince George’s County as part of its rapid national growth strategy. As reported by the journalist and the Washington Business Journal, the company is “looking at setting up its first location in Greater Washington,” signaling confidence in the County’s retail market and consumer demand.

“A fast-growing Arkansas drive-thru is looking at setting up its first location in Greater Washington,” the article notes, pointing directly to Prince George’s County as the targeted entry point.

The proposed concept reflects a broader shift in the retail landscape—toward convenience-driven, high-volume formats. 7 Brew’s model focuses on compact, drive-thru-only locations designed for speed, accessibility, and scalability, aligning with evolving consumer behavior and traffic patterns.

For Prince George’s County, this type of investment signals more than a single retail addition. It represents continued validation of the County as a viable market for national brands, particularly those seeking strategic locations outside of traditional urban cores.

The company is “eyeing a corner of Prince George’s County” for development, underscoring the County’s role in regional expansion strategies.

The economic implications are clear:

  • Retail attraction: National brands entering the County increase visibility and signal market strength to other investors

  • Job creation: Drive-thru models like 7 Brew typically support local hiring and workforce entry opportunities

  • Commercial corridor activation: Strategic site placement drives traffic and supports surrounding businesses

This aligns with Prince George’s County’s broader economic development strategy focused on business attraction, retention, and corridor revitalization. As more brands look beyond traditional D.C. locations, the County is increasingly competitive in capturing that growth.

At a time when consumer behavior continues to favor convenience and speed, developments like this reinforce a key takeaway: Prince George’s County is not just participating in regional growth—it is actively capturing it.

Read the Full Story

To explore the full report from the Washington Business Journal and learn more about the proposed development:

Read full story Here

Capital + coaching + community: The formula for small business success

Prince George’s County Businesses Gain Momentum Through Capital + Coaching Model

Prince George’s County small businesses are seeing measurable growth through a model that combines funding with hands-on business support—an approach that is reshaping how economic development is delivered locally.

A recent Washington Business Journal article highlights the success of the “capital, coaching, and community” model, which pairs financial investment with technical assistance and peer networks. As reported by the journalist and the Washington Business Journal, this approach is helping small businesses not only access capital but use it more effectively to scale operations and increase revenue.

“The combination of capital, coaching, and community is what drives small business success,” the article notes, emphasizing that funding alone is often not enough to create sustainable growth.

In Prince George’s County, this model is already producing results. Through a regional initiative supported by philanthropic partners, 17 small businesses received grants and structured coaching—leading to reported revenue increases of 15% to 25%.

“When entrepreneurs are supported with both funding and guidance, they are better positioned to stabilize and grow,” the article explains, underscoring the importance of pairing financial resources with strategy.

This reinforces a key economic development takeaway: capital without capacity limits impact. Businesses that receive funding but lack operational guidance often struggle to scale. By contrast, those supported with coaching—ranging from financial planning to marketing and operations—can convert investment into measurable outcomes.

For Prince George’s County, the implications are clear. Small businesses are a primary driver of job creation, local spending, and community stability. Strengthening their ability to grow is not just support—it is a strategic economic investment.

“This model is designed to help businesses move from survival to sustainability,” the article states, pointing to long-term ecosystem benefits beyond individual firms.

As Prince George’s County continues to prioritize business attraction, retention, and expansion, this model provides a clear blueprint: integrated support systems deliver stronger economic outcomes.

Read the Full Story

Explore the full article from the Washington Business Journal to learn more about how this model is driving small business success across the region:

READ FULL STORY HERE

Industrial Advisory Board Convenes to Advance Strategic Growth in Prince George’s County

The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) convened its first Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) meeting of 2026 at its headquarters in Largo, bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders committed to strengthening the County’s industrial sector.

The meeting provided a platform for collaboration and strategic alignment, as members engaged directly with PGCEDC leadership, including President & CEO Ingrid S. Watson and Chief Operating Officer Branndon Jackson. Discussions focused on key development projects, emerging opportunities, and priority initiatives designed to support business expansion, attract new investment, and enhance the County’s competitive position within the regional industrial market.

Hosted by John Anthony Mason, Business Development Manager for Industrial Warehousing & Manufacturing, the session emphasized the importance of targeted industry engagement in driving sustainable economic growth. Conversations highlighted how infrastructure, workforce development, and site readiness continue to play a critical role in positioning Prince George’s County as a prime destination for industrial investment.

The Industrial Advisory Board serves as a vital connector between public and private sector leaders, ensuring that industry insights directly inform economic development strategies. Through these engagements, PGCEDC continues to strengthen partnerships that accelerate business growth, support job creation, and expand opportunities across the County.

As Prince George’s County advances its economic development priorities, collaboration with industry leaders remains central to delivering measurable outcomes and long-term impact.

Ready to grow your business in Prince George’s County? Connect with our Business Development team for the resources, insights, and support to help you expand: https://www.pgcedc.com/meet-the-team

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Elevate Prince George’s. Expansion Starts Here.

Business Spotlight: FUNBOX Bowie Brings High-Energy Family Fun to Prince George’s County

Prince George’s County continues to grow as a destination for innovative, family-centered experiences—and FUNBOX Bowie is the latest example of that momentum in action.

Located in Bowie, FUNBOX Bowie introduces a dynamic indoor bounce park designed to bring people together through movement, play, and shared experiences. As one of the newest attractions in the County, FUNBOX is redefining what family entertainment looks like creating a space where both kids and adults can engage, connect, and have fun side by side.

“Bowie is bringing a new level of family engagement and active fun to Prince George’s County,” said Audrey Achonu, Owner/Operator of FUNBOX Bowie. “Designed for both kids and adults, FUNBOX creates an environment where families can unplug, connect, and make lasting memories together. From high-energy play to shared experiences, the space encourages parents to join in the fun—something the team says is at the heart of what they do.”

More than just an entertainment venue, FUNBOX Bowie reflects a broader shift toward experiential destinations that support quality of life and community engagement. With vibrant attractions and interactive installations, the park caters to families, groups, and community events, positioning itself as a go-to hub for active recreation in the region.

The decision to locate in Prince George’s County was intentional.

“Bowie’s cultural diversity and strong sense of community made it a natural fit for FUNBOX,” Achonu added. “After engaging with local families, ownership recognized the need for spaces that support young, growing households. By investing in Prince George’s County, FUNBOX aims to not only serve the community but also demonstrate the strength of the local market and inspire continued business growth in the region.”

FUNBOX Bowie also highlights the County’s appeal as a place where businesses can thrive by meeting the evolving needs of residents. As Prince George’s County continues to attract new investment across retail, entertainment, and lifestyle sectors, concepts like FUNBOX reinforce the County’s position as a vibrant, family-friendly destination.

At PGCEDC, we are proud to support businesses that enhance the community experience while contributing to economic growth and local engagement.

Looking to bring your business to Prince George’s County or expand your footprint?
Connect with our Business Development team at PGCEDC.com and discover how your business can grow here.

Elevate Prince George’s, because Expansion Starts Here.

Maryland's Purple Line now 87% complete

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Over the weekend, the Maryland Transit Administration said the Purple Line project is now 87% finished.

However, the opening date for the 16-mile, 21-station light rail line is still predicted to be about two years away.

Other recent milestones include the delivery of the final 28 light rail vehicles in November, the completion of all tracks in Prince George’s County, and testing that has expanded to new areas, including College Park.

Read Full Article Here

Anchor grocer nears for long-stalled Westphalia Town Center retail component

Westphalia Town Center, a 480-acre Prince George's County development, is still devoid of its long-promised retail center.

But that key piece of the sprawling Upper Marlboro project is finally showing signs of life.

Scottsdale, Arizona-based Walton Global Holdings Ltd., owner of the project along Pennsylvania Avenue just northeast of Joint Base Andrews, is nearing a deal with a grocer to serve as the anchor tenant, officials say. One of the largest projects in the Prince George's pipeline, Westphalia's commercial core has struggled to get off the ground amid financing issues and changes to the retail landscape before and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Read Full Article Here

Taste Of College Park Offers Chef-Inspired Cuisine, Menu Specials

COLLEGE PARK, MD — Starting Jan. 16, residents can sample the best College Park's eateries have to offer during Taste of College Park.

The event will run this year from Jan. 16-25. More than 20 local restaurants are participating in Taste of College Park, offering special menu items just for the event, along with lunch and dinner deals to patrons. An updated list of participating restaurants will be released before the event.

Read Full Article by Kristin Danley-Greiner Here

Northwest Stadium unveils first major events of 2026 following record-breaking year

Landover, Md. (WBFF) — After a historic 2025 season, Northwest Stadium has announced the first events on its 2026 calendar, featuring an international soccer showdown and a major stadium concert from one of the world’s biggest pop stars.

The Landover venue will host an international men’s soccer friendly between France and Colombia on March 29, followed by Bruno Mars’ highly anticipated The Romantic Tour stop on May 2.

Read Full Story by ALEXA DIKOS HERE

Maryland awards $5M to IonQ for new College Park headquarters

Maryland has awarded a $5 million grant to assist College Park quantum computing company IonQ Inc. with the buildout of its forthcoming 100,000-square-foot headquarters.

The grant, part of a series of awards totaling $69.5 million announced by Gov. Wes Moore's office on Wednesday, is the latest installment of state funding to support the fast-growing company. It follows a previous $5 million grant IonQ received from Maryland in September for its new headquarters as part of the state's $1 billion Capital of Quantum initiative.

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UMD takes central role in Maryland’s $1B quantum computing initiative

Inside an underground lab in the University of Maryland’s Physical Sciences Complex, physics professor Steven Rolston pointed toward a maze of mirrors, lenses and laser beams projected across a table.

The beams of focused light contain atoms, trapped in a vacuum chamber at temperatures similar to the conditions in outer space. Rolston and his team of student quantum researchers use these highly-controlled conditions to study how these atoms interact.

Read Full Story Here

Prince George’s schools, Colin Kaepernick-backed AI firm partner for storytelling tech


By John Domen

Prince George’s County Public Schools plan to make a big investment in artificial intelligence programs in the coming years, and one of the programs the system is starting with is an AI-powered storytelling platform backed by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

Kaepernick was on hand Tuesday as the program, Lumi Story, was demonstrated at Largo High School. He is the CEO of the company that’s behind the program.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

Raising Cane’s makes its College Park debut

More than 200 people from around the Washington, D.C., region traveled to College Park for the grand opening of Raising Cane’s on Tuesday.

The line outside of the chicken-finger restaurant began Monday night when Bree Beanum drove from Virginia to be first in line at 10 p.m. for the restaurant’s opening Tuesday morning. By 8 a.m., Route 1 was packed with people excited to try Cane’s iconic chicken tenders.

READ FULL ARTICLE BY Bella DeCrescenzo HERE

Karaoke Bar, Entertainment Center Opens At National Harbor

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD — An entertainment center and karaoke bar has opened at National Harbor.

Live-K features 24 state-of-the-art private karaoke rooms, dynamic lighting and sound, a high-energy bar program, family-friendly programming, and weekend brunch. The facility opened Nov. 22 at 137 National Plaza and spans 12,000 square feet.

READ FULL ARTICLE BY Kristin Danley-Greiner HERE

Washington Business Journal Niccolo de Masi leads IonQ through rapid expansion

In less than a year, the College Park‑based quantum computing company doubled its revenue, raised billions in new capital, and consolidated competitors through half a dozen acquisitions — all while drawing the attention of both Wall Street and Washington.

At the center of that rapid growth is CEO and Chairman Niccolo de Masi, who took the helm in February.

Read the Full Article by Nate Doughty Here

City of Laurel Governor Moore Announces $17 Million for Community Solar Projects to Cut Energy Costs for Marylanders

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced $17 million in grants that will allow more income-qualified Marylanders to tap into the cost-cutting and environmental benefits of the Community Solar Grant Program. The program promotes access to solar power for individuals who rent their homes or cannot install solar panels on their own properties.

READ FULL ARTICLE AT MARYLAND.GOV HERE

Washington Business Journal Six Flags America site in Prince George's is being marketed for mixed-use, data center development

The massive Six Flags America site in Prince George’s County is officially up for sale — and a marketing flier lists mixed-use and data center development as what would work best for one of Greater Washington’s largest redevelopment sites.

A marketing flier for the property from CBRE was posted on the Facebook page for Amusement Insider on Thursday. Six Flags Entertainment Corp., which announced plans to close the park in May, said at the time it retained CBRE to market the property.

Read Full Article by BRUCE WAYNE HERE

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