Glossary

Capital Improvements Program (CIP)

A plain-English definition of Montgomery County, Maryland's Capital Improvements Program and how it differs from the operating budget.

Last updated: 2026-05-19

Independent and unofficial. Source-linked term.

CIP means Capital Improvements Program.

In Montgomery County, the CIP is the multi-year plan for capital projects such as public buildings, roads, school facilities, parks, major renovations, and other long-term public assets.

The CIP is different from the operating budget. The operating budget pays for annual services and yearly costs. The CIP organizes long-term project costs, schedules, and funding sources.

Why It Matters

The CIP is where residents should look for long-term project plans, especially school construction, public buildings, roads, parks, and major renovations.

Common Misunderstanding

A project listed in the CIP is not the same thing as an annual service budget. A school building project belongs in the capital budget system. Teacher salaries belong in the operating budget.

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