(BALTIMORE — March 25, 2025) — The State of Maryland’s West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) awards millions in grant funding for its 15-year revitalization strategy to transform the West North Avenue corridor in West Baltimore.
In this second round of funding, more than $6.5 million was distributed among 19 recipients, including minority, women, veteran, and returning citizen-led businesses.
Chad Williams, Executive Director of WNADA, stated, “These awards will stimulate economic growth and improve community services in West Baltimore. The State’s RFQ opportunity enables our small and local communities to build stronger neighborhoods and become more resilient.”
Among the projects awarded are housing development opportunities in the Coppin Heights, Easterwood and Mondawmin neighborhoods, local businesses opening storefronts in Druid Heights and Penn North communities, and initiatives to assist, employ, and train Baltimore youth in construction trades.
“This year, the WNADA grant program hit a new milestone. More than 108 businesses and organizations submitted proposals requesting more than $100 million in grant subsidy support, said Senator Antonio Hayes, 40th district. “This is a testament to the community’s interest in working together for positive change. The State is proud to support these local efforts that do so much to improve the quality of life in the 40th district and beyond.”
The West North Avenue Development Authority was enacted in 2021 through legislation to encourage economic growth in West Baltimore.
“I look forward to the growth our investment in these focus nodes will bring. I congratulate the communities and businesses that are receiving support through this round of grants”, said Williams
The WNADA Board of Directors unanimously supported the proposed grant-funded projects during its meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025.
The WNADA Board of Directors and Executive Director authorized $4.8 million in grants for neighborhood development, public safety, and residential and commercial development during the most recent quarter of FY25. Of these, $2.7 million was allocated for purchasing the 1.8-acre Greenwood Towing property located at 1370 W North Ave., and $1.1 million was allocated for public safety.
This brings the overall investment in the West North Avenue corridor for FY 25 to $12.2 million. In addition to the $9.7 million it contributed in FY24, WNADA has invested $21.2 million over the last two years to promote economic growth. The authority’s next grant round will begin on Thursday, May 1, 2025. A Pre-submission conference will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Check out our website for confirmed location details.
Founded in 2021, the West North Avenue Development Authority was created by the Maryland State Legislature. WNADA supports the development and approval of a comprehensive neighborhood revitalization plan within 250 yards of the portion of West North Avenue in Baltimore City between the 600 block and the 3200 block, inclusive.
