The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission
News Release
For Immediate Release:
August 6, 2026
M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Department Announces
Opening of Fall Application Process for the Neighborhood Planning Academy
– Fall 2026 Cohort will be hosted in virtual-only format –
LARGO, MD – The Prince George’s County Planning Department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) announces that applications for the next Neighborhood Planning Academy are now open. The free, seven-week, virtual course supports residents, municipalities, non-profit organizations, and the business community in understanding how the development process works, how to better engage, and how to advocate for community goals and visions.
The Neighborhood Planning Academy offers a unique opportunity for community-minded individuals to learn about urban planning and actively shape the future of Prince George’s County. The curriculum covers essential topics in urban planning, community engagement, and sustainable development. The program also aims to empower residents to actively engage in planning and decision-making processes in their communities.
“Strong communities are built when residents have a voice in the decisions that affect where they live, work, and play,” said James Hunt, Acting Director of the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Department. “The Neighborhood Planning Academy equips participants with practical planning knowledge and creates opportunities for meaningful engagement, helping to build informed community leaders across Prince George’s County.”
Applicants will be selected from each councilmanic district for geographic diversity. The fall cohort runs most Wednesdays from October 7, 2026 – November 18, 2026, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (except for one session on Tuesday, November 10 due to the Veterans Day holiday.) All classes will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams including the final session with capstone project presentations that highlight newly acquired skills and planning knowledge. The application deadline is August 31, 2026.
Since the launch of the program in the fall of 2023, the Neighborhood Planning Academy has hosted six cohorts and graduated approximately 300 Prince George’s County residents and stakeholders. Spaces are limited! To apply and learn more about the NPA program visit http://academy.pgplanning.com. For any questions, please email PGCNPA@ppd.mncppc.org.
About the Prince George’s County Planning Department
The Prince George’s County Planning Department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is responsible for preserving, protecting, and managing the county’s resources through high-quality planning services and growth management guidance. Our mission is to promote economic vitality, environmental sustainability, design excellence, and quality development that promotes healthy lifestyles in Prince George’s County. Visit our website, https://www.pgplanning.org/, to learn how you can become engaged in shaping the future of your community.
Assistance
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission encourages the participation of persons with disabilities in all its programs and services. To receive a disability accommodation call the Public Affairs Office at 301-952-3038, email PublicAffairs@ppd.mncppc.org, or complete the online form.
Contact:
Patricia Villone
Public Affairs & Marketing Specialist III
Patricia.villone@mncppc.org | 301-952-4112
Calista Black
Chief Communications Officer
calista.black@mncppc.org | 301-952-3038
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