84 Lumber Relocating

Originally Published: August 23, 2024

Moving North For More Space

John Parlett, local developer, appeared before the County Commissioners at their meeting on August 20th to requesting an easement. St. Mary’s Gateway LLC, owned by Parlett, is set to develop approximately 25 acres in Charlotte Hall across from Mohawk Drive. The easement will permit an entrance to the development crossing the railroad right-of-way (ROW), also known as the Three Notch Trail.

County Attorney Buffy Giddeons said the railroad easement has existed since the 1970s, and was preserved with the thought of light-rail service in the future. Since then, Recreation & Parks has developed many sections, including this one, as the Three Notch Trail. The proposal was approved by Rec & Park, SMECO, and the county’s Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPWT).

Fifteen acres is under contract to 84 Lumber, Parlett explained, because the company has “run out of space” at their current location. Wetlands are present in the middle of the 25 acres, and will be split when the property is divided. The northern 15 acres will be 84 Lumber’s new location. The adjoining landowner, a private residence, has agreed to an easement with Parlett to construct an entryway off the light at Mohawk Drive. Parlett “was contacted by the County to help [84 Lumber] find space,” he said. He referenced an email from County Administrator David Weiskopf dated November 2020. At the time, Weiskopf was County Attorney.