Governor Moore Unveils Ambitious Housing Agenda to Boost Affordability and Growth

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has introduced a comprehensive housing agenda designed to increase housing availability and affordability across the state, focusing on strategies to expedite development and revitalize communities, particularly those near transit hubs. The initiative, set to be presented during the 2026 legislative session, comprises three key pieces of legislation aimed at removing obstacles to housing construction and acquisition. The announcement was made at Metro’s Capitol Heights station in Prince George’s County, underscoring the importance of transit-oriented development within the plan.

The cornerstone of the governor’s proposal is the Maryland Transit & Housing Opportunity Act of 2026. This legislation seeks to dismantle zoning and financing barriers that impede the creation of new housing and jobs in areas surrounding transit stations. Key provisions include the elimination of minimum parking requirements for certain transit-oriented developments, the encouragement of mixed-use projects around vital transit hubs, and an increased state authority over the development of land adjacent to transit stations. To further incentivize development, the act will enhance existing financial support for projects situated near high-quality transit. This initiative is also poised to unlock over 300 acres of state-owned land near transit stations, with the potential to generate more than 7,000 housing units and approximately $1.4 billion in tax revenue for both the state and local communities. By streamlining the development process, the legislation aims to maximize the state’s substantial transit investments, foster economic growth, and increase public transit usage.

Two other significant legislative proposals supporting the governor’s housing goals were highlighted. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Starter and Silver Homes Act of 2026 is designed to broaden housing options by allowing for smaller, more cost-effective homes. This act would permit the construction of smaller single-family homes on reduced lot sizes and the development of townhouses in residential zones statewide. This measure is intended to address the current shortage of available homes and high interest rates that are making it difficult for new generations of homebuyers and seniors to find suitable housing. It is anticipated that this act could enable homes that are up to 30 percent less expensive than those currently available, thereby making homeownership more accessible to a larger segment of Maryland families.

Additionally, Governor Moore expressed strong backing for the Housing Certainty Act of 2026, a bill co-sponsored by Senator Malcolm Augustine and Delegate Dylan Behler. This legislation aims to tackle issues of regulatory uncertainty, project delays, and impact fees that contribute to escalating housing costs and hinder the progress of essential housing developments. The Housing Certainty Act is intended to provide stability for approved housing projects, preventing the disruption and cost increases that can arise from changing regulations. By ensuring that the rules governing a project do not shift after its approval and by streamlining fee collection processes, the bill seeks to reduce the overall cost of housing construction and improve affordability for Maryland residents.

These proposed legislative measures build upon the administration’s previous efforts, including the Housing Starts Here Executive Order, to stimulate housing production and alleviate the state’s housing shortage. Collectively, these initiatives are expected to revitalize areas around transit infrastructure, utilize state-owned land for economic and housing development, and expand housing choices for Marylanders. The Moore-Miller administration has indicated its intention to collaborate with the Maryland General Assembly and local stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these critical bills. Residents can expect potential impacts on housing availability and costs as these legislative efforts move forward.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from a press release by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.

---