MD Gov. Moore's Bold Plan: More Affordable Homes, Faster Construction!
Maryland Governor Wes Moore Aims to Tackle Housing Crisis
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed an executive order, “Housing Starts Here,” with the goal of accelerating housing construction and increasing the availability of affordable homes across the state. The order mandates significant changes to state agency procedures related to housing permits.
Under the new directive, all state agencies issuing housing-related permits must designate senior permit coordinators and enhance their review processes by early next year. This aims to streamline the often-complex and time-consuming permitting process.
Furthermore, agencies are required to digitize all permit applications and fee payments by March. The goal is to reduce processing times and increase transparency in the system.
The Department of Housing and Community Development will also appoint an ombudsman to act as a liaison between the state government and those seeking permits, providing a point of contact and assistance for navigating the process.
Addressing Maryland's Housing Needs
Governor Moore emphasized that these changes are designed to cut through bureaucratic red tape and facilitate the construction of new housing units. Maryland leaders have prioritized housing expansion to address a pressing need for more affordable options and to combat rising home prices.
The state's housing department financed nearly 4,000 affordable units in fiscal year 2025, representing the highest number in a decade. They also invested $1.64 billion in development projects and $1 billion in first-time homebuyer mortgages.
Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative (BVRI)
In July, Governor Moore announced $50 million in grants to support Baltimore City's efforts to reduce vacant properties through the BVRI. This funding will be used for demolition, stabilization, and acquisition of vacant homes for redevelopment, as well as supporting community development organizations and large mixed-use projects.
The governor also introduced a new Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative Support Fund, a partnership providing additional assistance to community development organizations.
Maryland UPLIFT Program
Governor Moore also launched the $10 million UPLIFT program in June, which targets historically redlined and disinvested areas, aiming to revitalize these communities.