New Opportunity Zone Designations Create Investment Opportunities

News Release # 2026-105

Monday, Nov. 9, 2026

Governor Wes Moore recently announced that Maryland selected 114 census tracts for designation under the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. Charles County will have three designated Opportunity Zones under the new program: two in Waldorf and one in the Newburg/Morgantown area. Opportunity Zones 2.0 incorporates changes made to the federal program in 2025 to encourage long-term private investment in communities with strong growth potential.

"Opportunity Zones represent a significant economic development tool to attract private capital to support a wide range of investments," said Reuben Collins, Charles County Commissioner President. "These designations support the County's ongoing efforts to advance redevelopment, support existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and attract investment across the county," said Jim Chandler, Director of the Charles County Economic Development Department. "We will continue to partner with state agencies, developers, site selectors and the business community to promote opportunities in these areas and position Charles County for commercial growth."

The two tracts in Waldorf's primary growth area include portions of the Waldorf Urban Redevelopment Corridor, offering opportunities for mixed-use development and commercial development. The designation will build on earlier infrastructure investments and planning tied to the proposed Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT) corridor.

The Newburg/Morgantown designation includes the former Morgantown Generating Station, which could support new industrial uses and advanced manufacturing. The designation may expand the range of potential investors and attract suppliers, complementary industries, and tourism-related businesses.

The updated Opportunity Zones 2.0 program is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Businesses, property owners, developers, and investors interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the Charles County Economic Development Department at [email protected].

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About Charles County Economic Development Department: The Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) supports and promotes the economic vitality of Charles County, Maryland, a dynamic and fast-growing region in the Washington, D.C. metro area. It serves as the first point of contact for local businesses and for companies seeking to locate or relocate to Charles County.

With a strong collaborative network of business, education, and government partners, the organization assists companies through a variety of services, including site selection, workforce training, incentive packaging, introductions to business contacts, permit expediting, and capital sourcing.

EDD seeks to attract entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and companies from key growth industries to the region by marketing Charles County's business, workforce, and lifestyle assets. In addition, the EDD provides resources and support to help existing businesses grow and expand in Charles County.