After years of anticipation, construction has officially started on the long-awaited Clarksburg Town Center Retail Core. This is a major milestone for the Clarksburg community and an exciting step toward bringing more walkable retail, services, and gathering spaces to the heart of town.

Land development work began this week, with building construction expected to follow later this summer or fall. According to Elm Street Development, the early phase of work includes extending water lines, sanitary sewer, and storm drain systems, installing select stormwater management facilities, completing the sediment control basin near St. Clair Road and Stringtown Road, and building out the parking areas.

The bulk of the land development work is expected to be completed by August, with some smaller construction-related activities continuing alongside or after building construction begins.

Retail Interest Is Already Building

Elm Street Development shared that they are already in conversations with several businesses interested in leasing space within the Retail Core. While specific tenants have not yet been announced, this is encouraging news for residents who have been waiting for more convenient shopping, dining, and services within Clarksburg Town Center.

For many homeowners and future buyers, the completion of the Retail Core represents more than just new buildings. It adds to the long-term lifestyle appeal of the community by creating a more connected, walkable, and amenity-rich neighborhood.

St. Clair Road Closure During Construction

Because the Retail Core area is now an active construction site, St. Clair Road will be closed for the duration of construction, beginning on or around May 1. Montgomery County has permitted the closure, and the appropriate groups have been notified.

Construction activity will be taking place on both sides of St. Clair Road, so residents are asked to stay out of the construction zone for safety. The area will be posted with signage and fenced where required.

One important note for pedestrians and cyclists: the Greenway Trail along Overlook Park Drive from Clarksburg Square Road to Stringtown Road will remain open during construction.

Plan Amendments and Architectural Updates

As planning continues and conversations with prospective businesses move forward, some updates to the Retail Core plans are expected. Elm Street Development noted that these types of changes are typically handled through formal plan amendments.

An amendment to the Preliminary Plan is expected in the coming weeks. Importantly, this amendment is not expected to affect the current construction timeline for the planned Retail Core work, and it does not impact Weis Markets’ timeline.

A Big Step Forward for Clarksburg Town Center

The start of construction marks a long-awaited turning point for Clarksburg Town Center. After years of discussion, planning, and community interest, the Retail Core is finally moving from concept to reality.

For residents, this project has the potential to bring more convenience, more local business activity, and a stronger sense of place to the neighborhood. For the broader Clarksburg market, it is another sign of the area’s continued growth and long-term appeal.

Clarksburg has been waiting for this moment for a long time, and it is exciting to finally see progress happening on site.