Clarksburg, MD — (April 13, 2026) Demolition of the former COMSAT building officially commenced today, marking a significant milestone in advancing the vision and goals of the newly adopted Clarksburg Gateway Sector Plan, recently approved by the Montgomery County Council.
The Council’s approval of the Sector Plan establishes a bold, long-term framework to guide growth in Clarksburg transforming the area into a more connected, economically vibrant, and sustainable community. The plan prioritizes a mix of uses including housing, employment, retail, open space, and improved infrastructure, positioning Clarksburg as a key hub for UpCounty’s future, according to Montgomery County Planning documents.
“I am very excited for what’s next in Clarksburg,” said Council President Natali Fani-González in a press release about the sector plan approval. “The Clarksburg Gateway Sector Plan will help define the direction of this community in years to come and play an important role in strengthening our economy and providing desperately needed housing.”
The start of demolition represents the first tangible step toward implementing that vision. The former Comsat building of about 500,000 square feet has sat vacant for about 20 years.
“With the Sector Plan now approved, we are moving forward to position this site for its next chapter,” said Comsat property owner River Falls Investments LLC CEO Bob Elliott. River Falls has owned the 200-acre Comsat tract for 10 years. “This is an important moment for Clarksburg and reflects a shared commitment from the County Council to the community to creating a more complete, connected, and vibrant place to live and work.”
According to the Clarksburg Sector Plan, the former COMSAT site represents one of the largest and most significant redevelopment opportunities within the planning area. The property is positioned to play a major role in shaping the future development and set the tone for how the broader vision is realized. Its scale and location along I-270 make it critical to delivering new large-scale employment opportunities, thoughtfully planned housing, and the infrastructure needed to support long-term growth in the UpCounty.
The redevelopment of the COMSAT property is expected to contribute to the Sector Plan’s goals, including job creation, an expanded tax base, and new opportunities for residents and businesses, according to the sector plan document.
“River Falls is proud to lead the charge on this transformation. After sitting dormant for two decades, removing the former COMSAT structure isn’t just about demolition; it’s about setting the stage for a modern, mixed-use environment and Clarksburg’s next chapter,” Elliott said. “This is only the beginning.”
About River Falls LLC
River Falls LLC (formerly known as Lantian Development) is a real estate investment and development firm headquartered in Bethesda, MD focused on advancing medium to large-scale sustainable development within the metro Washington, DC, footprint. With a portfolio spanning residential, mixed-use, and strategic land development projects, River Falls is committed to advancing projects that support economic growth, enhance connectivity, and reflect the evolving needs of the markets it serves.
Founded in 2014, the firm takes a collaborative approach, working closely with local stakeholders, public agencies, and community partners to ensure each project contributes meaningfully to its surroundings. River Falls emphasizes responsible development practices, long-term stewardship, and a vision that balances innovation with community impact.
Contact: Krista Brick
Krista@MaierWarnerPR.com
703-217-1080
