Maryland’s military facilities, spanning all branches of the armed forces, contribute more than $57 billion in statewide economic impact and support over 370,000 jobs, playing a vital role in local, state, and regional economies. Development that is compatible with these facilities and their ranges and airspace is paramount to protecting and growing the military missions throughout the state while ensuring communities continue to prosper economically and enjoy a high quality of life.

Matrix identified potential compatibility issues between Maryland military installations and their surrounding communities that may have statewide and/or regional impacts and determined where there are opportunities for the State of Maryland to take policy actions or assist local jurisdictions with compatibility planning. This statewide approach created efficiencies in how compatibility can be implemented through shared resources and with a reduced duplication of efforts.              

Matrix employed a robust engagement process with state agencies, localities, and the military, to identify and analyze 25 compatibility topics applicable on a statewide and regional level, provide recommendations and solutions to manage common community/military compatibility concerns, and improve early coordination between numerous entities and organizations.

Matrix assessed and recommended enhancements to Maryland land use planning legislation and Maryland interagency communication and coordination protocols for identifying, responding to, and proactively preventing encroachment on  military installations. Our team evaluated procedural gaps in the permitting process of solar and geothermal energy development and the threat these structures can pose to military operations and recommended solutions to possible risks posed by vertical obstructions and interference from tall structures. Analysis of the area around each installation helped create a plan to enhance awareness and deconflict the complex airspace environment used by the military.

Matrix provided a statewide, comprehensive set of solutions that foster mutually beneficial partnerships to address compatibility efficiently and collaboratively between military installations and impacted communities throughout the State of Maryland.