Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability (PALS)

The Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability (PALS) is administered by the National Center for Smart Growth at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD). PALS is a campus-wide initiative that leverages the expertise of UMD faculty and the creativity, energy, and talent of UMD students to support Maryland communities in becoming more environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. The program provides innovative, cost-effective assistance to the Planning Department while offering University of Maryland graduate and undergraduate students valuable, real-world problem-solving experiences.

The Prince George’s Planning Department began its partnership with PALS in 2019 and has since completed 33 projects addressing a wide range of topics, including planning and development, environmental and social issues, historic preservation, placemaking, and transit-oriented development. The partnership is currently working to finalize additional courses for the 2026-2027 academic year. Follow us to stay informed and engaged with this ongoing collaboration.