New program aims to tackle Baltimore's vacant housing challenges

BALTIMORE -- Governor Wes Moore has signed an executive order establishing the Reinvest Baltimore program, a collaborative effort to tackle Baltimore's longstanding issue with vacant properties.

The city has around 13,000 vacant structures and over 20,000 vacant lots. The council aims to move 5,000 homeowners into vacant homes over the next five years by leveraging investments from various stakeholders.

"This initiative will ensure that all Baltimoreans have a seat at the table," Moore said. "Those closest to the problem are closest to the solutions."

The council will coordinate partnerships among state, city, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations to transform vacant properties and revitalize neighborhoods.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott launched a 15-year plan last year to address the city's vacancies, but now with the involvement of state leaders, the effort has gained new momentum.

"You also have business leaders, community members, and everyone working together because that's the only way we are going to handle this issue," Scott said.

Governor Moore emphasized that some properties will be turned into livable homes, while others may be demolished to make way for new projects. The process will include significant community input.

"Everything will be done with not just local input and feedback, but with local push," Moore added.

A town hall meeting, hosted by the Department of Housing and Community Development, is scheduled for Saturday, October 5, at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. It will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with virtual attendance options available.