Howard County Government has announced the purchase of the 9755 Patuxent Woods Drive building in Columbia, with the intention of housing several
County departments. This new building will become their new opportunity and economic mobility center.
“This year has been a challenging one for many of our residents, who were negatively impacted by federal government level cuts and the historic shutdown. With more than 50,000 government employees and contractors calling Howard County home, our community was hit particularly hard. To assist our neighbors in their time of need, we expanded our workforce resources and childcare services, as well as offered housing support. That is why we have decided to create a single location, where residents can go and easily and quickly find the resources they need to thrive and live their best life,” said County Executive, Calvin Ball
Over the course of the next year, the building will open in phases, starting with the County’s Office of Workforce Development (OWD) this December 2025. OWD will offer job services for displaced federal workers and other residents who can access training workshops, receive job coaching and consulting, resume services among other things. Additionally, the Maryland Department of Labor and the Maryland State Department of Education will be relocating to space within 9755 Patuxent Woods Drive.
“The new opportunity and economic mobility center brings key services together under one roof. This will make it possible for residents — including our federal workers — to access support more quickly and easily,” said Maryland Secretary of Labor Portia Wu. “We’re excited to deepen our partnership with Howard County and expand access to opportunity for every community member.”
To learn more see the video announcement below:
