In the last 28 years Maryland has provided over $5.4 billion in funding to assist local education agencies (LEAs) with the construction of public school facilities, as well as approximately $175 million through other construction funding programs. State capital funding decisions for public school construction have a direct impact on the location of residential development across Maryland, with effects that will endure for many generations.

In its role on Interagency Committee on School Construction (IAC), the Maryland Department of Planning aims to advance policies that encourage local jurisdictions to construct and rehabilitate neighborhood schools that serve as focal points in communities by promoting shared community uses, effective use public infrastructure, preservation of community identity and landmarks, promote healthy, walkable communities while reducing traffic demand and air emissions related to motor vehicle usage and reduce sprawl. These interrelated set of policies link school construction growth directly to smart growth, community revitalization and sustainable development goals.