Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is a city located in Montgomery County, Maryland, approximately 30 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. It serves as a suburban community while also functioning as a regional commercial center. As of the 2020 census, its population was around 79,000 residents, making it one of the larger municipalities in Montgomery County. The city covers roughly 19 square miles and features a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas.

The settlement was first established in the late 18th century and was officially incorporated in 1910. Its original name, "Lakesville," was changed to Gaithersburg in honor of pioneer William W. Gaither, a prominent figure in the area’s early development. The town grew rapidly during the mid-20th century, especially with the arrival of major employers such as the U.S. Naval Weapons Center and the nearby Research Triangle Park.

Economically, Gaithersburg hosts a diverse array of businesses, including biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, and technology companies. The city is also a major retail hub, with the Gaithersburg Town Center and numerous shopping districts attracting visitors from the surrounding region. The presence of the University of Maryland’s satellite campus and several research institutions, including CRISPR therapeutics companies operating within the Washington-Baltimore-Boston corridor, underscores its role in science and innovation.

Public transportation is served by the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA), providing bus routes to Washington D.C., Baltimore, and neighboring towns. The city also offers extensive bike paths and recreational parks, supporting a high quality of life for its residents.