Message from the Director of St. Mary's County Economic & Community Development, Bob Schaller:

Leonardtown is the County seat. Its also our only incorporated town. Thus it serves a very important political function. But its also emerging as a real destination with the look and feel of Solomons Island or even Annapolis.

Right now theres a lot of construction going on in town with the streetscaping effort. While there are some delays getting through town, the work is progressing well and you can really start to see the outcome of a much more pedestrian-friendly downtown. In the midst of this theres a lot going on in town this summer. For example, theres music on the square on three Saturdays in July. College of Southern Maryland is hosting twilight performances on its front lawn every Tuesday night. The next First Friday, August 7 is followed by the annual Beach Party on the Square on August 8, a full afternoon event capped off with fireworks. All are free and open to the public.

The Leonardtown Wharf, just a short walk down from the square, continues to attract more interest. The Port of Leonardtown Winery out by the KFC/Taco Bell is under reconstruction and getting closer to wine production this fall. People are finding out about the new 41-room hotel in town while other businesses are emerging on the edges of town. Businesses are extending hours and offerings to serve more and different customers. This is just the start. Look for much more to come.

See http://leonardtown.somd.com and www.leonardtownfirstfridays.com for more information, and please stop by. You will not be disappointed.