Now is the time to speak up about a Burtonsville plan to spruce up the town's central business district, paving the way for more community spaces, foot traffic and business.

In coming months, the Burtonsville Neighborhood Plan, a vision for how to bring a sense of community and increase economic vitality to the area, will go before the Montgomery County Council--first in a public hearing, then in a couple of committee meetings and finally a full vote. 

Senior Planner Kristin O'Connor began a study in November 2010 to discover ways to revitalize the area, spurred in part by the struggling Burtonsville Crossing shopping center, which continues to lose both tenants and customers. 

Haven't been following along? Get caught up on plans for Burtonsville. 

Over the past two years, neighbors told planners that they wanted to see more public spaces and streets that are safer for pedestrians, which O'Connor's plan provides for, along with a flexible, mixed-use re-zoning of the shopping center.

A public hearing before the council is scheduled for Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Those interested in testifying should sign up by calling the council office at 240-777-7803. 

The council's planning, housing and development committee also will discuss the plan in two seperate meetings, on Oct. 15 and Oct. 29.

Ultimately, the full council will take up the plan and vote to either approve, dismiss or amend the recommendations. 

Read more:

Burtonsville Re-Zoning, Revitalization Passes Planning Board

SaveBurtonsville.com: Property Owners, Planners Spar Over Future of Rural Area 

WATCH: Plans for Burtonsville to Provide 'More Human Connections'