On Monday, November 15th, a revitalization project establishing “zero energy” affordable housing and storefronts underwent a groundbreaking ceremony in west Baltimore City.
The project will create 20 units of affordable housing and four commercial storefronts, contributing to 20 permanent jobs. Solar panels and super-insulated walls will allow the properties to produce as much energy as they consume. In a Baltimore Sun article, Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development Commissioner Alice Kennedy explained the significance of the development:
“This development really checks off a number of those boxes when we think about intersecting components of sustainability, housing and housing development… Now is the time.”
The Sun mentioned the following attendees spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony:
Annie Hall, president of the North Community Association; Mark Kaufman, president and CEO of Baltimore’s Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund, another source of funds for the project; City Councilman James Torrence, a Democrat who represents the area; and state lawmakers Del. Marlon Amprey and Sen. Antonio Hayes, who represent the district in the Maryland legislature.
According to a press release, the project, a part of the City’s Black Arts and Entertainment District, will receive contributions from a “workforce development nonprofit providing training and experience in sustainable development and solar panel installation to individuals with low incomes.”
