A Comprehensive Guide to Maryland’s Public Housing and Urban Development Programs

Introduction

Maryland offers a range of public housing and urban development programs designed to provide affordable housing and foster community growth. This guide provides an overview of these programs, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and contact information.

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)

The DHCD is the primary state agency responsible for housing and community development in Maryland. It offers various programs to assist residents in securing affordable housing and revitalizing communities.

Contact Information:

  • Address: 7800 Harkins Road, Lanham, MD 20706
  • Phone: (301) 429-7400
  • Customer Service Toll-Free: 1-800-756-0119
  • TTY/Relay: 1-800-735-2258
  • Email: customerservice.dhcd@maryland.gov
  • Website: DHCD Maryland

    • Public Housing Programs

    Public housing programs in Maryland aim to provide safe and affordable housing to low-income individuals and families. These programs are administered by local housing authorities and the DHCD.

    Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8):

    This federal program assists eligible individuals and families in affording rental housing in the private market.

    Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income Limits: Generally, applicants must have an income at or below 50% of the area median income.
  • Family Composition: Varies by program; includes families, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities.
  • Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or have eligible immigration status.

    • Application Process:

  • Contact Local Housing Authority: Identify the housing authority serving your area.
  • Obtain Application: Applications are typically available online or at the housing authority’s office.
  • Submit Application: Follow the instructions provided; some authorities may require in-person submission.
  • Waitlist: Due to high demand, applicants may be placed on a waitlist.

    • Local Housing Authorities Contact Information:

  • Housing Authority of Baltimore City:

    • – Address: 417 E. Fayette Street, Suite 1339, Baltimore, MD 21202
    – Phone: (410) 396-3232
    – Website: HABC Contact

  • Housing Authority of Prince George’s County:

    • – Address: 9200 Basil Court, Largo, MD 20774
    – Phone: (301) 883-5552
    – Email: hapgcdirector@co.pg.md.us

  • Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis:

    • – Address: 1217 Madison Street, Annapolis, MD 21403
    – Phone: (410) 267-8000
    – Email: mmaddox-evans@hacamd.org

    For a comprehensive list of housing authorities in Maryland, refer to the PHA Contact Information provided by HUD.

    Urban Development Programs

    Urban development initiatives in Maryland focus on revitalizing communities, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

    Maryland Sustainable Communities Program:

    This program supports local jurisdictions in revitalizing designated areas through planning and development projects.

    Eligibility Criteria:

  • Designated Areas: Local jurisdictions must apply to have areas designated as Sustainable Communities.
  • Project Alignment: Proposed projects must align with the program’s goals of economic development, housing, and infrastructure improvement.

    • Application Process:

  • Application Submission: Local jurisdictions submit applications to the DHCD.
  • Review and Approval: Applications are reviewed based on criteria such as project impact and feasibility.
  • Designation: Approved areas receive Sustainable Communities designation, unlocking access to various state resources.

    • Contact Information:

  • Address: 7800 Harkins Road, Lanham, MD 20706
  • Phone: (301) 429-7400
  • Email: customerservice.dhcd@maryland.gov
  • Website: DHCD Maryland

    • Additional Resources

  • Maryland Affordable Apartment Search: A database maintained by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) listing apartments that offer subsidies to low-income tenants.
  • GoSection8.com: A platform listing housing available to individuals receiving Section 8 vouchers.
  • Maryland InfoPortal: An online resource connecting residents to various assistance programs and services across Maryland.

Conclusion

Maryland’s public housing and urban development programs offer valuable resources for residents seeking affordable housing and community development opportunities. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes, individuals can access the support needed to enhance their living conditions and contribute to the growth of their communities.

For more detailed information, visit the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development website or contact your local housing authority.