Governor Wes Moore has proposed a $73.7 million allocation in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget to fund 252 projects through six state revitalization programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. These investments target county and municipal governments, community development organizations, and other local partners to support projects that advance revitalization goals in disinvested communities across the state. Governor Moore emphasized that the funding will strengthen communities, enhance economic competitiveness, and ensure that every dollar awarded helps improve the places Maryland residents call home.
The projects were selected through a competitively scored, multi-agency review process and include initiatives such as business expansion, façade and streetscape improvements, homeownership and rehabilitation incentives, commercial improvement programs, community facilities, mixed-use developments, and strategic demolitions. Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day highlighted that for every dollar invested through these programs, the state sees approximately $17.90 in economic impact, demonstrating tangible returns from revitalization efforts.
The Strategic Demolition Fund proposes $10 million for 27 projects, including roof replacement programs for low-income households, affordable housing construction, predevelopment for mixed-use hotels and conference centers, and demolition projects to improve public spaces. The Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative plans more than $20.5 million for 78 projects, focusing on housing rehabilitation, workforce development hubs, mortgage interest reductions, and restoration of historic buildings to strengthen communities within the Baltimore Beltway. Similarly, the National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund proposes over $20.2 million for 33 projects in and around the Capital Beltway, targeting vacant commercial space activation, new grocery stores, community centers, and predevelopment for mixed-use and historic building renovations.
Community Legacy programs have been allocated more than $8 million for 48 projects in Sustainable Communities, including park construction, childcare and community center rehabilitation, historic space transformations, flood mitigation, and fire department infrastructure improvements. The Maryland Facade Improvement Program plans over $5 million for 46 projects statewide to enhance storefronts, commercial districts, and mixed-use properties, preserving local character while attracting new business activity.
Additionally, the Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund proposes $10.2 million in grants and loans to higher education institutions and hospitals for community development projects in disinvested areas. These projects include workforce training hubs, oyster processing facilities with public exhibits, shoreline restoration and recreational access projects, and multi-agency operations centers to enhance public safety and community services.
Of the $73.7 million proposed, $47.2 million is directed to Just Communities, designated areas identified to repair historical harms, reduce disparities, and create equitable opportunities for residents. The funding reflects a coordinated effort by the state to drive economic development, strengthen local communities, and invest strategically in areas most in need.
