Housing and Community Development - Project Restore Program - Establishment

SB 235 establishes Maryland's Project Restore Program within the Department of Housing and Community Development to revitalize vacant properties in local business districts. The program provides funds to community development organizations and local governments serving "sustainable communities," which they must then distribute as subgrants to small businesses or nonprofits. These subgrants can cover rent, property renovations, furniture/equipment purchases, or buying the vacant property itself, with the goal of making the space operational within the grant term. The bill directly affects neighborhood organizations, local governments, and small businesses aiming to improve underutilized commercial properties. It takes effect July 1, 2025.