Moore Introduces Housing Agenda for Upcoming Legislative Session

January 13, 2026

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has unveiled an ambitious housing reform agenda set to begin in the 2026 legislative session, featuring three bills aimed at addressing the state's housing affordability crisis. The proposed legislation would eliminate minimum lot sizes and parking requirements near transit, promote mixed-use development, and create opportunities for less expensive "starter and silver" homes. Moore announced these initiatives alongside the reveal of a $17 million development project near Capitol Heights Metro that will add approximately 300 homes and retail space.

Who is affected

Young families and seniors struggling to find affordable housing in Maryland
Residents of Prince George's County, particularly those near the Blue Line Corridor
100 families at risk of displacement from the Marylander Condominiums
Future residents of the approximately 300 new homes planned near Capitol Heights Metro
Homebuyers locked out by high interest rates
Residents of aging communities throughout Prince George's County

What action is being taken

Atlantic Pacific Companies is investing at least $17 million to add roughly 300 homes and 10,000 square feet of retail near Capitol Heights Metro
Moore's administration is implementing housing policies (described as "the most aggressive...in a generation")
Senior leaders at Quasar Real Estate have engaged with Governor Moore and his administration officials

Why it matters

This housing agenda represents a significant shift in Maryland's approach to addressing its affordability crisis by tackling fundamental supply constraints through zoning reform. The legislation aims to reduce construction costs by up to 30% for certain home types, potentially making homeownership accessible to generations currently priced out of the market. The initiative is particularly significant for Prince George's County's economic future, with development along the Blue Line Corridor inside the beltway representing untapped potential. Additionally, the situation at Marylander Condominiums illustrates the urgent need for both new supply and preservation strategies, as the deterioration of naturally affordable housing can displace vulnerable communities and worsen the crisis.

What's next

The three housing bills (Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunity Act of 2026, Housing Certainty Act of 2026, and Starter and Silver Homes Act of 2026) will be introduced when the legislative session begins on January 14
Residents of Marylander Condominiums are searching for answers, solutions, and safe housing
According to real estate professional Phil Dawit, there is a need to pair the state legislation with a county-level strategy to preserve and rehabilitate existing housing

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer