Reduced rent units will be made available to Baltimore City first responders in 2023.
Affordable housing is a core concern for county governments and state leaders alike. Affordable housing refers to units that individuals whose income is below the median household income can afford. In Baltimore City’s case for this specific project, the requirement to apply for first responder affordable housing units is that one must be a Baltimore City police and fire department worker who earns no more than 80% of the city median income.
The concept, developed by The Baltimore Development Corporation and Landmark Partners, is to ensure first responders can live in the communities they serve, providing enhanced services and relationship building to their own neighborhood. Even the design of the buildings and units are taking into account first responder needs such as secure lockers.
Baltimore City Police Commissioner Michael Harrison was present at the groundbreaking and stressed that the housing project aligns with the City’s efforts to attract more law enforcement to live in Baltimore. Additionally, the project will revitalize the block which has remained mostly vacant for decades, helping bring new life to the area.
According to WYPR News, “Developers began construction on a $25 million mixed-use renovation project with 66 apartments in addition to 10,000 square feet of retail space and a wellness center. Dubbed the Guardian House, developers are setting aside 20% of the units for first responders with reduced rent, and plan to open in 2023.”
