(BALTIMORE – April 23. 2025) – Yesterday, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed Senate Bill 4 and House Bill 258 into law—historic legislation aimed at revitalizing West Baltimore and the West North Avenue corridor, one of the city’s most historic yet long-neglected commercial and residential areas.
Signed as an emergency measure, the bill responds to decades of disinvestment in West Baltimore neighborhoods and affirms the State’s commitment to reversing these trends. The legislation officially designates the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) as Maryland’s lead economic development agency for Baltimore City.
“I’m proud of the collaboration between Governor Moore, Senate President Bill Ferguson, Speaker Adrienne Jones, and the leadership of the Senate Finance Committee, chaired by Senator Pamela Beidle, and the House Ways and Means Committee, chaired by Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary,” said Chad Williams, Executive Director of WNADA. “Their partnership with Senator Antonio Hayes and Delegate Melissa Wells of the 40th Legislative District has sustained our momentum and delivered a roadmap for West Baltimore’s economic future.”
This legislation empowers WNADA to continue implementing its comprehensive planning strategy, which includes funding initiatives in economic development, housing, transportation, green space, and neighborhood revitalization. It also supports the resurgence of a vibrant arts, cultural, and entertainment district.
“Ten years ago, the tragic death of Freddie Gray did more than spark national outrage—it exposed the deeply rooted inequities that have shaped life for generations of Baltimoreans,” said Senator Antonio Hayes. “This legislation represents the most deliberate and significant investment our government has made in the very community where he lost his life.”
“This is a historic investment in economic and workforce development for residents and small businesses in some of Baltimore’s most underserved neighborhoods,” added Delegate Melissa Wells.
In line with Governor Moore’s commitment to community-driven progress, the bill recapitalizes WNADA’s programs, ensuring that West Baltimore receives targeted support to advance local priorities, unlock economic opportunities, and boost revenues for both the city and the state.
“As an agency formed to address the legacy of redlining—a discriminatory practice rooted in West Baltimore and mirrored across the country—we are honored to lead Governor Moore’s investment in the city’s renewal, in close partnership with Mayor Brandon Scott,” said Williams.
This legislation marks a significant milestone in West Baltimore’s revitalization strategy, laying a strong foundation for the lasting sustainability of both neighborhoods and businesses.
Community Engagement Opportunity
Join WNADA for the first of three Comprehensive Planning meetings on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Kappa Foundation House, 1207 Eutaw Place, Baltimore, MD 21217. Light refreshments will be served.
