Public Housing in Maryland
Issue Background
In 1995, the state of Maryland had plans to demolish and re-build several public housing projects in Baltimore City. Several families took this opportunity to raise concerns with the state about the placement of public housing projects in low-income unsafe neighborhoods. A court settlement called for new public housing to be built in economically sustainable communities. Unfortunately, the project remains unfinished while advocacy groups continue to fight for and against completion.
Key Arguments
» Yes
- Relocating public housing projects into safe and economically sustainable neighborhoods will offer better schools and new jobs for the low-income families in need of a leg-up.
» No
- Relocating public housing projects does not resolve the problems of the unstable neighborhood. The state should use their resources to strengthen neighborhood surveillance, community integration, or any number of strategies that aim to solve the location's problems.
- Compelling communities of different economic and cultural backgrounds can quickly decay a neighborhood's composure. This could lead to resentful relationships and unsafe streets.
