Silver Spring Downtown

Montgomery County

Montgomery County: The Heart Behind Silver Spring’s Success

Montgomery County and Maryland: Partners in Silver Spring’s Success

Silver Spring’s vibrance and cultural richness are the result of a powerful partnership between Montgomery County Government and the State of Maryland. Together, these entities provide the vision, resources, and support that have made Silver Spring a thriving destination for residents and visitors alike.

Montgomery County shepherded the revitalization of Silver Spring in the early 2000s into a downtown mixed-use walkable community. The effort involved significant public investment into the purchase and restoration of the Silver Theater, which was the first anchor venue of the Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment District. Montgomery County also attracted a revitalized business district through public private partnerships with Peterson Companies, who developed the Downtown Silver Spring shopping center, and Discovery Communications headquarters.

The Arts & Entertainment Districts Program

Supported by the state, this program empowers Silver Spring’s cultural scene, hosting hundreds of events annually at venues like Veterans Plaza, the AFI Silver Theatre, and The Fillmore. These events and institutions drive local economic growth and showcase Silver Spring’s diversity and creative spirit. Meanwhile, Montgomery County ensures that the infrastructure and community spaces supporting these activities—parks, bike lanes, and public transit—remain accessible and welcoming year-round.

Purple Line Light Rail System

This system, funded in partnership with the state, exemplify how collaboration fosters connectivity and opportunity. These investments, combined with the area’s vibrant dining, shopping, and arts scenes, highlight how state and county governments work hand-in-hand to make Silver Spring a remarkable place to live, work, and visit.