The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) named Atlantic Pacific Companies (A|P) as the selected developer for a joint development project at Capitol Heights station in Prince George’s County, which will deliver new affordable housing and neighborhood-serving retail space, advancing the county’s broader Blue Line Corridor vision.

The project builds on a $17 million commitment from the state of Maryland toward transit and site infrastructure improvements at Capitol Heights station, announced in 2024. 

WMATA, Prince George’s County, and the town of Capitol Heights have executed a memorandum of understanding to formalize a partnership to advance development.

Blue Line Corridor Initiative

The Capitol Heights station project is part of Prince George’s County’s Blue Line Corridor initiative, a coordinated planning effort to catalyze growth and attract private investment at four WMATA stations between Capitol Heights and Downtown Largo. 

In support of the vision, the state of Maryland has committed $450 million to deliver a range of signature facilities along the corridor, including an amphitheater, market hall, central library and cultural center, civic plaza, youth sports fieldhouse, complete streets infrastructure, and the Central Avenue Connector Trail.

“This project shows what’s possible when regional partners align around a shared vision for transit-oriented growth,” said WMATA GM/CEO Randy Clarke. “By bringing new affordable housing and retail directly connected to transit, we’re strengthening ridership, supporting the community, and helping the Blue Line Corridor reach its full potential.”

As part of the development concept, approximately 3.8 acres of existing surface parking will be transformed into 320 affordable apartments priced at 60% of the area's median income, along with about 10,000 square feet of retail space. In addition to Atlantic Pacific Companies, the development team also includes architect Torti Gallas + Partners and general contractor Whiting Turner. 

Benefits of the Development

WMATA officials estimate the development will generate almost 100,000 annual rail trips. The development will also access key bus routes connecting Prince George’s County and the District of Columbia.

“Joint development is a critical element of Metro’s strategy to grow ridership, generate long-term revenue, and deliver meaningful regional benefits,” said WMATA Board Chair Valerie Santos. “The Capitol Heights project demonstrates our commitment to partnerships that prioritize sustainable, community-centered growth.”

The developer was competitively selected for their experience delivering affordable housing projects, including properties in Prince George’s County. The agency also evaluated proposals from two other development teams as part of the selection process.

To date, WMATA and its partners have completed 59 joint development projects at 32 stations, generating approximately $220 million in annual tax revenue across the region. 

Since 2022, about 1,500 residential units — including 800 affordable units — and 325,000 square feet of office space have been delivered, with an additional 1,300 residential units and 422,000 square feet of office space currently under construction. 

WMATA officials added that future joint development projects could generate an additional $300 million in annual tax revenue.