Montgomery Village News Articles
Momentum in Montgomery Village: Celebrating 2025 achievements
2025 was a year of growth and transformation, driven by new projects, programs and initiatives that delivered exciting milestones. Montgomery Village Foundation (MVF) reached every corner of the Village, from upgraded amenities to expanded engagement opportunities, the launch of a new committee and much more. It was a year marked by progress, which strengthened sustainability, security and community spirit.
One standout achievement, the installation of solar panels, had an immediate impact. Panels now supplement power at six facilities: South Valley Park Lawn Theater, Whetstone Community Center, Stedwick Community Center, North Creek Community Center, Peggy Mark Pool and the MVF Office. The first energy bill showed significant savings, a clear step toward a greener future.
The major renovation of Stedwick Pool and Bathhouse began in October with demolition of the old pool structure. With permits approved, construction is underway for the summer 2026 reopening. MVF will share updates through the Village News and social media as progress unfolds.
Other community centers and pools also saw upgrades. With the sand filter media reaching the end of its life at both Whetstone and Hurley Park pools, it was replaced with the more sustainable and efficient crushed glass filter media (already in use at Lake Marion Pool). Hurley Park Pool received upgraded pumps, an automated water level control system and additional preventive maintenance to ensure the pool is ready for the summer. Whetstone Community Center and Pool received fresh paint and a new epoxy bathhouse floor, as well as parking lot repairs and a retaining wall replacement with more durable stone pavers. The asphalt paths at Lake Marion and Lake Whetstone were repaired, and Kaufmann Park received a new guardrail, measuring approximately 816 feet, to improve safety along the walking path and lot.
In addition, the tennis courts at The Heights Recreation Area were repaved, resurfaced and repainted for smoother play, and new fencing was added. Engineered wood fiber was installed on all MVF-owned playgrounds, as is done annually, to ensure surfacing meets current safety standards.
MVF also expanded security measures at some facilities. Following successful use of cameras at the MVF Office and Lake Marion Community Center, new security cameras were installed at North Creek and Whetstone community centers. MVF also installed keyless entry access control systems at North Creek, Whetstone and Lake Marion community centers, replacing traditional key access. This system provides improved security and accountability, remote administration and real-time monitoring, customizable access levels, integration with MVF’s surveillance system, and easier access for facility users and risk mitigation.
Furthermore, MVF was pleased to open a brand-new amenity, the Apple Ridge Multigolf Course. This 9-hole course begins at the MVF Office and ends at the Apple Ridge Recreation Area, offering residents a chance to enjoy nature, stay active, and engage in friendly competition. The course offers both disc and foot golf and is free to the public of all ages.
Beyond facilities, 2025 was about people, programs and celebrations that strengthened the Village spirit. MVF approved a Community Statement, now on the MVF website, affirming MVF’s commitment to inclusivity and respect across the Village.
To boost engagement, MVF launched the “Join the Conversation” promotional video, featured on the MVF website and the MVF YouTube channel. Highlighting diverse amenities and Village life, the video encourages residents to get involved. More is planned for 2026, so follow MVF on social media, check out Village News in print and online, and visit www.montgomeryvillage.com to see how you can be a part of the conversation.
MVF successfully hosted the Montgomery Village 5K Race and 1-Mile Fun Run, the Montgomery Village Independence Day Parade and Celebration, The Great Pumpkin Race and Fall Festival, along with many other special events like the Flea Markets, Farmers’ Market, Easter Eggstravaganza, Summers at South Valley Concert Series and Christmas Tree Lighting.
Of course, one of the most exciting events MVF is preparing for is its 60th Anniversary in 2026. In preparation for this milestone, MVF held a logo contest. On Nov. 7, MVF unveiled the winning design inspired by a Village resident and announced the upcoming 60th Anniversary Passport Journey, set to launch on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, which is 60 years to the day that the Kettler Brothers broke ground in Montgomery Village.
Moreover, MVF reestablished a one-way SMS Text Alert System to provide residents with quick, reliable updates from MVF regarding community-wide special events, weather delays and closures, community surveys, notice of important meetings and emergency text alerts specific to Montgomery Village residents. Residents can also hear from their local HOA or COA, receiving timely reminders and urgent updates.
MVF is also proud to maintain its Tree City USA designation for the 37th year. On April 30, MVF Board members, staff and residents planted a red maple tree at North Creek Lake Park in celebration of Arbor Day and in honor of Scott Dyer’s 15+ years of service on the MVF Board of Directors. The event underscored MVF’s longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Along with our many programs and services, MVF is grateful for the people who make up the Village. At the MVF Annual Meeting, MVF recognized Captain Eric Stancliff for his service as Montgomery County Police Department 6th District Commander. His leadership fostered positive relationships between MVF, residents and law enforcement. Following Captain Stancliff’s transition to a new role in the Policy and Procedures Department, MVF gladly welcomed Commander Brian Dillman, formerly of the 1st District, as his successor. We thank Captain Stancliff for his dedication to keeping the Village safe.
MVF continued to support education by awarding three scholarships to outstanding Village high school seniors, through the support of generous resident donations. Andrea Ferrufino and Abigail Sanchez‑Perdomo of Watkins Mill High School and Sophia Harris of Gaithersburg High School each demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and civic engagement.
We were also saddened by the loss of long-time resident, volunteer and Village advocate Jane Hatch, who passed away in March after a long battle with cancer. Jane’s contributions to Montgomery Village were innumerable and deeply valued, and she will be missed.
Strong leadership guided progress as the MVF Board advanced initiatives and welcomed new members, paving the way for a more connected and vibrant community. The Transportation, Development and Public Facilities (TD&PF) Committee was reestablished to help monitor pedestrian safety, intersection improvements and other transportation developments while encouraging resident engagement. The MVF Board also held more in-person meetings to strengthen transparency and connection. There were also updated criteria in several communities to reflect updated needs and promote higher community standards.
Alongside changes in committees and community standards, the MVF Board welcomed fresh energy. Transitions included new Board Treasurer Dr. Jayaraman Vijayakumar, following outgoing Treasurer Tom Wills, and new Board member John Kozo to fill a vacancy from long-time Board member Pam Bort. In addition, MVF advocated on behalf of condominiums at the state level, supporting legislation that benefits Village residents.
2025 also marked important staff changes. Christopher Hitchens retired after 13 years of service, and we welcomed Adam Polsky to fill the role as General Counsel. Karen Kodjanian was promoted to Assistant Executive Vice President, reflecting her leadership and commitment to the organization.
Looking ahead, development across Montgomery Village continues to take shape, with projects that promise a bright future. Bloom Village Area 2, along the extension of Stewartown Road, is nearing completion, adding more new housing stock. The townhomes at the rear of the Village Center are well underway, with completion of all townhouse and condominium units expected by 2030.
The county’s investment in pedestrian safety was realized with intersection improvements all along Montgomery Village Avenue. The project is slated to be finished in spring 2026, with the complete repaving of the avenue and installation of Pedestrian Hybrid Signals at several intersections. In the meantime, the county has already implemented several changes to enhance pedestrian and traffic safety, including extending medians and adjusting crosswalk timers.
From upgraded facilities to community programs, staff transitions and new development, 2025 was a year of meaningful progress. MVF Board and staff remain committed to keeping Montgomery Village a place all residents are proud to call home. As the year ends, MVF looks forward to building on these achievements in 2026. From the entire staff and MVF Board, have a holiday season filled with joy and laughter, and Happy New Year!
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