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Department of Housing and Community Development

State Revitalization Program Awards to Bring $2 Million to Community Development Projects in Western Maryland

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (December 23, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has announced that Western Maryland counties have received a combined $2 million through four of the state’s seven State Revitalization Programs for 13 projects and activities that promote community development and economic growth.

“For Maryland to win the decade, we must transcend the status quo and continue our work to improve communities across the state,” said Governor Wes Moore. “From creation of affordable housing and community space to improvements to streetscapes and infrastructure, vibrant, revitalized communities not only make Maryland a desirable home for all; they are the cornerstone for a better Maryland.”

The state’s seven State Revitalization Programs support revitalization and redevelopment projects and activities including: business expansion and retention; façade and streetscape improvements; homeownership and home rehabilitation incentives; commercial improvement programs; community facilities; mixed-use development, and demolition activities.

Projects in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties were awarded. Click to view the full list of awards.

Some of these projects include:

  • Demolition of blighted structures on City-owned land, as well as essential pre-development tasks to set the stage for future townhome construction (Allegany County);
  • Providing funding for stabilizing at-risk buildings on Frostburg’s historic Main Street to redevelop into mixed use or multi-family projects (Allegany County);
  • Assisting in improving while maintaining the historical charm and character of the Oakland B & O Train Station (Garrett County);
  • And developing Horizon Market, a full-service grocery to bring fresh fruits, vegetables and household staples to the documented food desert in the City of Hagerstown (Washington County).

“DHCD is proud to support our local partners in Western Maryland in their efforts to build stronger communities, create loveable places, and invest in Maryland’s future,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “Each of these 13 projects plays a key role in our revitalization efforts and aligns with Moore-Miller Administration priorities.”

The Fiscal Year 2025 State Revitalization Program awards include 304 projects, awarded a total $129.5 million. Projects in each of Maryland’s 24 jurisdictions received awards through one or more of the programs. For a full list of awards, visit FY25 State Revitalization Program Awards.

Here’s what local leaders are saying about the awards:

“The dollars coming to Garrett County from DHCD are very important to the people and communities we serve through our work at Community Action. Without these funds, we simply could not provide the help that is needed when one of our neighbors has a crisis.” – Christopher Mullett, Garrett County CAC

 “We are deeply grateful to Secretary Jake Day and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development for recognizing and responding to the needs of Allegany County. Secretary Day and his team have been exceptional partners over the past several months, and their commitment to our communities is clear. These funds will drive growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. We look forward to continuing this strong collaboration for the benefit of Allegany County.”  – David Caporale, Allegany County Commission President

For more information about DHCD and each of the State Revitalization Programs, visit our website.