Governor Moore Proposes $73.7 Million in State Revitalization Funding

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced a significant proposed investment of $73.7 million for Fiscal Year 2027, earmarked to support 252 community revitalization and economic development projects across the state. These funds, to be administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), are intended to assist county and municipal governments, community development organizations, and other partners in advancing local revitalization efforts, particularly in areas identified as disinvested. The initiative aims to strengthen communities, foster economic competitiveness, and create more affordable living environments throughout Maryland.

The proposed budget allocates funds through six distinct state revitalization programs, which collectively support a wide range of activities. These include initiatives for business expansion and retention, improvements to building facades and streetscapes, incentives for homeownership and rehabilitation, programs for commercial development, community facility enhancements, mixed-use development projects, and demolition activities. Projects were selected through a competitive, multi-agency review process designed to ensure that investments align with community-driven priorities. The administration emphasizes a commitment to directing these funds toward strengthening communities and achieving their visions for growth and resilience.

A notable portion of the proposed funding, $10 million, is allocated to the Strategic Demolition Fund. This program is designed to accelerate economic development by addressing blighted or unsafe structures. Projects benefiting from this fund include a roof replacement initiative for low-income disabled, elderly, and veteran homeowners in Cumberland, Allegany County. Additionally, funds are proposed for the construction of affordable single-family homes and the development of a homeownership program in Elkton, Cecil County. In Frederick, Frederick County, the budget includes support for predevelopment and design work for a downtown hotel and conference center. Princess Anne, Somerset County, is set to receive funding for the demolition of an unsafe building on the Perch property and the creation of a walking path connecting Manokin Park to the downtown area.

The Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative is poised to receive over $20.5 million for 78 projects located within the Baltimore Beltway. These investments aim to spur redevelopment in key communities. Examples include the acquisition and rehabilitation of housing in the Arundel Village and Brooklyn Heights communities in Brooklyn Park, Anne Arundel County. Pikesville, Baltimore County, is slated to benefit from the construction of a Workforce Development Makerspace at the Pikesville Armory, intended to serve as a hub for innovation and education. In Baltimore City, initiatives include programs to reduce mortgage interest rates for buyers of former vacant properties, thereby promoting homeownership and neighborhood stabilization. The restoration of windows and storefront systems at North Avenue Market is also proposed to enhance its role as an economic anchor, while the historic Upton Mansion will be rehabilitated to house the AFRO archives and serve as a center for African American history and culture.

Similarly, the National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund proposes over $20.2 million for 33 projects within and around the Capital Beltway. These funds will support efforts such as the acquisition and activation of a vacant commercial space in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, to enhance placemaking and attract small businesses. Capitol Heights, Prince George’s County, is set to gain a new grocery store to serve the Park Place at Addison Road Metro area. Mount Rainier, Prince George’s County, plans to convert Potts Hall into a new Welcome Center. Further investments in Prince George’s County include engineering and predevelopment for infrastructure improvements in College Park’s Aviation Landing District, supporting a future affordable mixed-use development, and the renovation of a historic school building in Fairmount Heights to house the headquarters of United Communities Against Poverty and provide a community space.

The Community Legacy program is set to distribute more than $8 million across 48 projects in designated Sustainable Communities statewide. This includes funding for the Northwest Street Park project in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, which will support stormwater management and flood resilience, along with outdoor learning opportunities. In Baltimore City, funds are earmarked for the rehabilitation of spaces for two child care centers and the construction of new headquarters for Meals on Wheels. Frederick, Frederick County, will see the transformation of a vacant historic space into an expansion for the Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s stages, offering a venue for programming and community use. Ellicott City, Howard County, plans to renovate and activate two vacant historic buildings for mercantile use, bolstering neighboring businesses in the Historic District and on Main Street, following flood mitigation efforts. The Tylerton Fire Department in Somerset County will receive funding for a new building to house additional equipment. Easton, Talbot County, will undergo revitalization at Dover Station, initiating a third phase of development that includes the introduction of a brewery.

The Maryland Facade Improvement Program is proposed to allocate over $5 million for 46 projects across the state. These projects focus on enhancing the visual appeal and economic vitality of commercial areas. Examples include a grant program for facade improvements in Westernport’s town center, Allegany County, to encourage private investment. Phase II of the Liberty Road Facade Improvement Initiative in Gwynn Oak, Baltimore County, will provide upgrades to businesses along the commercial corridor. Westminster, Carroll County, will continue its facade improvement program for commercial establishments within designated Sustainable Community areas. Aberdeen, Harford County, plans building improvements to revitalize its designated Main Street area, supporting existing businesses and attracting new commercial activity. Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, will see upgrades to commercial and mixed-use properties in its Enterprise Zone, including the historic commercial district and the Frederick Avenue Corridor. Ocean City, Worcester County, will continue its Commercial Facade Improvement Program to assist with exterior improvements for commercial buildings in its downtown area.

Additionally, the Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund is proposing $10.2 million in grants and loans for 20 community development projects in disinvested areas, primarily benefiting higher education institutions and hospitals. This funding includes support for the construction of Washington College’s Innovation Plant in Chestertown, Kent County, which will serve as a regional hub for workforce training and entrepreneurship. Cambridge, Dorchester County, is set to establish an oyster processing facility with bio labs and a public exhibit. Baltimore City’s Cherry Hill neighborhood will benefit from the South Shoreline Restoration & Connection project, aimed at improving access to restored waterfront green and recreational spaces. The Strategic Operations Center, a joint facility for the University of Maryland Baltimore and the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, will enhance public safety and coordinated response in Downtown Baltimore. Notably, $47.2 million of the total proposed $73.7 million will be directed to projects within Just Communities, areas identified for intentional state investment to address past harms and reduce disparities.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from The Office of Governor Wes Moore

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