Kentlands, Maryland

Kentlands is a neighborhood in the city of Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States. It is one of the first attempts to develop a community using New Urbanism design principles. Kentlands was designed to be a walkable, mixed-use community where residents could live, work, and play all within a short distance of their homes.

History[edit | edit source]

Kentlands was founded in 1988 by developers Joseph Alfandre and DPZ CoDesign. The community was named after the Kent family, who originally owned the farmland on which the neighborhood was built. The design of Kentlands was heavily influenced by the principles of New Urbanism, which emphasizes walkability, mixed-use development, and a strong sense of community.

Design[edit | edit source]

Kentlands is divided into several distinct districts, each with its own unique character. These include the Old Farm, a residential area with single-family homes; the Lakes District, which features multi-family housing and a man-made lake; and the Downtown District, which includes a mix of retail, office, and residential uses. The community also includes a number of civic spaces, such as parks, a community center, and a performing arts center.

Community[edit | edit source]

Kentlands is known for its strong sense of community. The neighborhood hosts a number of annual events, such as the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K, a popular road race that attracts runners from across the region. The community also has a number of clubs and organizations, including a garden club, a book club, and a community chorus.

Education[edit | edit source]

Kentlands is served by the Montgomery County Public Schools district. Schools in the area include Rachel Carson Elementary School, Lakelands Park Middle School, and Quince Orchard High School. The community is also home to the Kentlands Montessori School, a private school offering Montessori education for children aged 2-6.

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Kentlands is located near several major highways, including Interstate 270 and Maryland Route 28. The community is also served by several bus routes operated by Ride On, Montgomery County's public transit system.