Clarksburg, Md., grows as residents advocate for new infrastructure
Briefly

Since the 1970s, Clarksburg, Maryland has evolved dramatically from a sparsely populated rural area with open fields to a thriving suburb with over 28,000 residents. Karen Earp, a long-time teacher in the community, has witnessed this explosive growth firsthand, noting the transition from a farming lifestyle to a diverse suburban identity. Historical roots trace back to the 1730s, and recent infrastructure developments, especially in the early 2000s, catalyzed this shift. Earp emphasizes the importance of establishing a cohesive community identity amidst ongoing changes, as residents appreciate diversity and continued infrastructural investments.
Earp noted, 'We grew very slowly, and then it just took off like crazy.' This highlights the rapid transformation of Clarksburg from rural to suburban.
According to the Clarksburg Historical Society, the town began in the 1730s and grew to about 3,000 residents for years, until an expansion in water and sewer capacity.
Earp explained, 'It kind of was the last frontier of Montgomery County, after Germantown really exploded,' pointing to how Clarksburg served as the final area of significant suburban expansion.
With over 70 flags now displayed in her school, Earp describes how the community diversified through its growth, representing the varied heritage of its new residents.
Read at Washington Post
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