By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Gov. Wes Moore (D) announced on May 6 that over $125 million will be allocated to State Revitalization Programs under the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to support community, housing and economic development projects.

Gov. Wes Moore (D) is making $125 million available for local projects supporting communities through housing and economic development, according to a May 6 announcement. (Photo courtesy of Office of the Governor)

“We must ensure that our cities, towns and communities are strong and resilient. Serving as viable, vibrant economic and social hubs with pathways to opportunity for all Marylanders,” said Moore in a news release. “Our State Revitalization Programs foster partnerships with local governments and stakeholders and provide critical capital resources to address the unique redevelopment goals and challenges of Maryland’s diverse communities.”

The funding will be available through seven programs, which include Community Legacy, Maryland Facade Improvement, Strategic Demolition Fund-Project C.O.R.E., Strategic Demolition Fund-Statewide, Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund and Seed Community Development Anchor Institution. 

The Governor’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget includes:

  • Community Legacy: $8 million capital
  • Maryland Facade Improvement Program: $5 million capital
  • Strategic Demolition Fund – Statewide: $10 million capital
  • Strategic Demolition Fund – Project C.O.R.E.: $50 million capital to accelerate the elimination of vacant properties in Baltimore
  • Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative: $20 million capital, $2 million operating
  • National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund: $19 million capital, $1,200,000 operating
  • Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Program: $10 million capital

Interested applicants should apply by June 26 at 3 p.m. The governor’s office advises first-time applicants to reach out to a regional project manager for more information on the process and to determine eligibility.

“Each year, State Revitalization Programs support hundreds of community improvement projects and activities that generate millions of dollars in additional public, private, and nonprofit investment,” said Jake Day, secretary of DHCD, in a news release. “I am extremely grateful that Governor Moore recognized the importance of these resources to local communities by maintaining or increasing funding for these important programs in his budget.”

Eligible projects should align with strategies outlined in an approved local government sustainable community plan. 

There will also be application training webinar sessions on May 20 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 

To register, visit https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Communities/Pages/StateRevitalizationPrograms/default.aspx.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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