City of College Park

Situated just minutes from the nation’s capital, the City of College Park is home to the University of Maryland and a wide variety of shops, restaurants, attractions and recreational opportunities. The City is comprised of over 30,000 residents that reside in diverse settings from quaint neighborhoods to luxury student housing complexes. With abundant transit options, beautiful parks and historic homes, College Park is certainly “A Smart Place to Live”.

Location and Population

The City is a municipality within Prince George’s County, and is located approximately 7 miles northeast of Washington, D.C. The City is primarily inside I-95/495, the Capital Beltway. The area that includes College Park was originally settled in 1745 and the City was incorporated as a municipality under Maryland state law on June 7, 1945. The City is the home of the University of Maryland, the flagship campus of the University System of Maryland, with a combined undergraduate and graduate population of approximately 36,000 students and a campus spanning 1,500 acres. The estimated current population of the City is 30,413, about half of which are students. The City comprises approximately 5 square miles, primarily along U.S. Route 1.

City Vision

The City of College Park is a vibrant and prosperous top 20 college town, which has established collaborative relationships with the residents, the University, businesses, non-profit sector, and other governments that benefit the entire community. The City is known for distinctive and connected neighborhoods, thriving commercial districts, cultural amenities, attractive green space and streetscapes, convenient transportation systems serving all users, and a strong sense of community pride.

City Mission

The City of College Park provides open and effective governance and excellent services that enhance the quality of life in our community.

City Goals

Goal 1: One College Park

The City of College Park and its residents, the University of Maryland (UMD) and its students, faculty and staff, and all stakeholders are connected to the community and work together for the best interest of College Park.

Goal 2: Environmental Sustainability

The City is a leader in the protection and restoration of natural resources and the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, technologies, and plans.

Goal 3: High Quality Development and Reinvestment

The City works with partners to facilitate investment along Baltimore Avenue, in the College Park metro station area, Berwyn Commercial District, and the Hollywood Commercial District to expand commercial development and housing options and increase the tax base to finance improvements in services and infrastructure.

Goal 4: Quality Infrastructure

The City’s infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, paths, technology, utilities, parks, playgrounds, City Hall, and other City facilities are constructed and maintained at a high quality standard and meet the needs of residents, employees, and visitors.

Goal 5: Effective Leadership

The City models excellent leadership and teamwork among Council, staff, and community partners to achieve the City’s vision and goals.

Goal 6: Excellent Services

College Park has high quality, consistent, and cost-effective services in every department that contribute to a desirable, welcoming, and safe City.

City Values

Open and Effective Government

The City conducts its business in a lawful, open, and democratic manner. The City values communication and public discussion on issues affecting the City.

High-Performing, Dedicated, and Valued Employees

City staff provide the highest level of service possible. They act with honesty and integrity and are empowered to solve problems. The City values and rewards excellent performance.

Sustainability and Long-term Planning

The City is committed to a sustainable built environment and active stewardship of our natural resources. The City’s long-term planning contributes to the well-being and prosperity of our community.

Fiscal Responsibility

The City maintains appropriate financial reserves, provides accurate financial information for decision-making, and spends revenue as effectively as possible.

Collaboration

The City values teamwork across departments and between Council and Staff. The City will strive to have productive, collaborative relations with the University, the County, the State, and neighboring jurisdictions in order to improve the City and the region.