Silver Spring, MD, September 30, 2024 – MHP’s affordable housing properties and community development work were a highlight of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Secretary Jacob R. Day’s recent tour of Montgomery County, MD. On September 24-25, Secretary Day, along with more than a dozen state and local elected officials and leaders, visited multiple properties in MHP’s affordable housing portfolio and learned about MHP’s neighborhood development initiatives within the County. 

The first MHP tour visit took place in Long Branch, where we have engaged in extensive community development and placemaking efforts. MHP Policy and Neighborhood Development Director Chris Gillis showcased our work, including multiple murals and the recently renovated historic Flower Theater facade. MHP is actively engaged in efforts to strengthen Long Branch to respond to the short- and long-term impacts of Purple Line light rail construction as well as to promote economic growth of the district.   

“Advocacy is an important part of MHP’s mission, said Gillis. We’re grateful to partner with state and local leaders to build awareness and identify solutions to addressing affordable housing challenges. Community development plays an important role in preserving and expanding opportunities for neighbors and businesses.” 

On the second day of Secretary Day’s visit, MHP President Robert A. Goldman led a tour of MHP’s affordable housing portfolio, highlighting our work in Montgomery County, MD. The group stopped at The Residences at Forest Glen, a $100 million-financed major development project that will provide affordable homes for almost 200 families near public transit in Silver Spring. The tour party also visited Beall’s Grant, a former motel in Rockville that MHP turned into affordable housing and renovated in 2018. Between property visits, the group traveled together on a public bus, discussing challenges and solutions to increasing housing equity in our community.  

Briefing the tour, Goldman said, “We don’t want to see people become displaced. By preserving and expanding access to affordable housing, we can provide more opportunities for residents to live near their jobs and stay connected to the community they call home. We’re grateful for Secretary Day’s interest in learning more about how MHP is addressing this.” 

During the tour, two community residents shared why affordable housing is important to them. Eric and Alan, residents of MHP’s Beall’s Grant, conveyed their appreciation for having a peaceful and comfortable place to live that is accessible to transit, shops, and jobs.  

DHCD has been a longstanding partner in MHP’s efforts to preserve affordable housing and strengthen community development in the region. Most properties in MHP’s portfolio have received DHCD funding, which is essential to fulfilling our mission of making home possible in Montgomery County and beyond.   

Secretary Day has conducted tours throughout jurisdictions in the State of MD to learn more about DHCD’s investments. Learn more about his visit to Montgomery County here.   

ABOUT MHP 

At MHP, we are dedicated to making home possible. Since 1989, MHP has been preserving and expanding access to quality affordable housing. MHP is a private nonprofit that provides more than 2,800 homes in Montgomery County, MD, and surrounding communities. We accomplish our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Learn more at mhpartners.org