# Economic Development (GEC)

## Title 12. Local Development Authorities and Resources

### Subtitle 7. Baltimore City -- West North Avenue Development Authority

#### Section 12-715

(a) In this section, "Program" means the Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Program.

(b) There is a Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Program in the Authority.

(c) The purpose of the Program is to foster social connections to support neighborhood development within the West North Avenue Corridor by:

  (1) providing technical support to participating organizations, including community development corporations, neighborhood associations, volunteer groups, and nonprofit organizations; and

  (2) awarding grants to implement programs that foster social connections and activities tailored to support neighborhood development.

(d)

  (1) The Authority shall award grants to implement the Program.

  (2) The Authority may annually set aside existing funds of not more than $150,000 for the purpose of awarding grants under the Program.

  (3) The Authority may award a grant under this section only for:

    (i) social gatherings, including block parties, cultural festivals, parades, speaker series, and service or recreational events;

    (ii) outreach initiatives, including neighborhood newsletters, community bulletins, or digital content, to raise awareness of social events and connect residents with available resources and services;

    (iii) stipends to compensate volunteers for the time used to organize projects, refreshments at Program designated events, rental and event spaces, and materials for Program events;

    (iv) operating support for participating organizations;

    (v) social connection projects to create and maintain green spaces or other community gathering spaces;

    (vi) resources for training and hiring community organizers; and

    (vii) resources for grant application efforts.

(e) Participating organizations shall collaborate with residents of the West North Avenue Corridor in the planning and implementation of events and projects to ensure that activities reflect neighborhood priorities and, to the extent practicable, that events and activities are led by residents.

(f) On or before July 1, 2029, the Authority shall compile evaluations and outcomes of programs to develop a template for neighborhood building and provide scaling recommendations to similar organizations in the State and across the United States.

(g) On or before December 1, 2027, and each December 1 thereafter, the Authority shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with Sec. 2-1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly on its comprehensive grant-awarding activities.

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Md. Code Ann., Econ. Dev. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)