Baltimore Takes a Major Step Forward with Its First Comprehensive Housing Plan
A Unified Vision for Affordable Housing Development in the City
Baltimore is laying the groundwork for a more equitable and accessible future in housing. Mayor Brandon M. Scott has officially announced the launch of the city’s first-ever Comprehensive Housing Plan, led by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). This ambitious initiative aims to align all existing urban development strategies, including the $3 billion vacant housing vision, into a cohesive and unified roadmap.
Community-Driven Planning: Gathering Voices from Across the City
At the heart of this plan is strong community engagement. Over the coming months, Baltimore will host four public town halls, conduct both digital and paper surveys, and organize focused group discussions on key housing topics. An advisory committee will also be formed, and industry experts will be interviewed. This participatory approach ensures the final plan reflects the diverse needs and visions of all Baltimore residents.
Addressing the Past to Build a More Just Future
Baltimore carries a legacy of housing inequality, including its historical role in redlining and disinvestment. Mayor Scott emphasizes that this new plan is a turning point to overcome that painful past. The goal is to establish a model of real estate development that promotes inclusion and prevents displacement across all neighborhoods.
From Vision to Execution: Clear and Measurable Goals
The Comprehensive Housing Plan will not be just a symbolic document. It will serve as an actionable, data-driven strategy with specific, measurable objectives. Building upon the lessons from the 2019 Community Development Framework, each goal will include metrics to track progress in both the production and preservation of housing.
A Future with Safe, Affordable Housing for Everyone
DHCD Commissioner Alice Kennedy noted that the housing plan complements the Citywide Comprehensive Plan by providing targeted, actionable goals to ensure safe and affordable housing citywide.
A draft of the plan will be released for public comment by late fall 2024, with the final version expected in early 2025. This is a critical moment for investors, developers, real estate professionals, and residents committed to equitable growth in Baltimore’s housing market.
