NEWS RELEASE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NEW CARROLLTON, MD (APRIL 29, 2025) - Three Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development-supported projects were recently recognized by the Maryland Economic Development Association for their impact on communities in Baltimore City, along with Western and Southern Maryland.
The annual MEDA Awards, sponsored by Miles & Stockbridge P.C., honors the individuals, initiatives, and projects that leverage economic development to transform lives across Maryland. The awards showcase efforts to attract new businesses, assist existing businesses, redevelop business districts and market communities, and support economic development throughout the State.
“We are honored that MEDA recognized several DHCD-supported projects this year,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “All three of these projects represent how state and local governments can collaborate on projects that are impactful on the community and serve as key examples on how great places win.”
“Each year, selecting the MEDA award winners is a rewarding challenge, as we are fortunate to have so many outstanding people, programs, and projects making a meaningful impact across Maryland,” said MEDA President Richard G. Griffin, CEcD. “It’s a great challenge to have, as these efforts are directly shaping the future of our state and driving lasting economic prosperity for communities statewide.”
Three projects that received funding through the Department were recognized during MEDA’s annual awards gala, which was held on April 28, 2025:
Hoen Lithograph Campus: Cross Street Partners
2025 MEDA Large Community Economic Development Project Winner
The Hoen Lithograph Campus transformed a long-vacant historic building in East Baltimore into a hub for mission-driven organizations and social enterprises, creating over 175 new jobs and training thousands of apprentices and job seekers. This project was nominated by DHCD and received $2.25 million in funding through State of Maryland Revitalization Programs administered by the Department.
Oasis Fresh Foods Market
2025 MEDA Small Community Economic Development Project Winner
The Oasis Fresh Foods Market project renovated and expanded a deteriorating building in the Town of Indian Head. This project has created 15 local jobs, implements profit-sharing to further empower the community, and supports the local food ecosystem by sourcing produce and goods from local businesses. The entire project received $5.5 million in funding from federal, state, and local partners, including more than $300,000 in strategic demolition funds through DHCD.
The Baltimore Street Project
2025 MEDA Transformative Economic Development Award
The Baltimore Street Project, nominated by the Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, is a transformative redevelopment initiative revitalizing Cumberland’s historically significant buildings along Baltimore Street in Cumberland. This revitalization has reshaped the city, reducing vacant buildings, attracting private investment, boosting the tax base by millions, and creating a vibrant space for residents, workers, and visitors. DHCD has invested heavily into this project, including $325,000 in Strategic Demolition Funding for infrastructure upgrades for the McMullen Building, a 60,000 square foot building in the downtown Cumberland historic district for retail, office and residential space.
"*" indicates required fields
