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Department of Housing and Community Development

State of Maryland Announces $1.5 Million Proposed for Community Development Projects in Western Maryland

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (January 20, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced that Western Maryland counties are set to receive a combined $1.5 million through the state’s State Revitalization Programs for 18 projects and activities that promote community development and economic growth in the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

“These projects are ready to move forward and will play a role in communities achieving their visions, which supports a more resilient, economically competitive and affordable Maryland,” said Gov. Moore. “The Moore-Miller Administration is committed to ensuring that every dollar awarded will help strengthen the places we call home.”

The state’s six 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 selected through a competitively-scored, multi-agency review process used for the State Revitalization Programs. Some of these projects include:

  • A Roof Replacement Program to provide roofs to low-income, single family homes owned and occupied by the disabled, elderly and veterans (Cumberland, Allegany County);
  • Creation of a grant program for façade improvements to commercial and mixed-use properties in Westernport’s town center area, leveraging private investment to enhance economic vitality and preserve the Town’s character (Westernpost, Allegany); 
  • Demolition of two severely deteriorated, unsafe properties posing health and safety risks to the public (Oakland, Garrett County);
  • Revitalization of Water Street encompassing both street repair and the integration of storm water infrastructure (Smithsburg, Washington County).

“Each one of these projects advances community-driven priorities tied to revitalization goals, and helps make great places – places that strengthen economic competitiveness and that people want to call home,” said Jake Day, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. “That investment delivers real returns: For every dollar invested through the Department’s revitalization programs, there’s approximately $17.90 in economic impact.”

The Fiscal Year 2027 State Revitalization Program awards include 252 projects, awarded a total $73.7 million. Projects in 23 of Maryland’s jurisdictions received awards through one or more of the programs. For a full list of awards, visit FY27 State Revitalization Program Awards.

For more information about the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and each of the State Revitalization Programs, visit our website.