Montgomery County Pauses Data Center Approvals to Build Clear Rules, Safeguards Housing, and Prepare for Red Line Impacts

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich announced a six-month pause—not a ban—on accepting new data center permit applications to give the county time to craft clear rules, highlighted the strengthened Right of First Refusal that preserved 52 affordable housing units at Tilbury Gardens and Argyle Street Apartments, and noted upcoming Metro Red Line construction with shuttles and bus lanes from July to September. He also promoted the county’s 250th anniversary activities, the Scotland Juneteenth festival, elder abuse awareness efforts, the Black Business Expo, and safety reminders for World Cup celebrations while encouraging support for local businesses.