MD HB1276

Establishes the Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Program within the West North Avenue Development Authority to foster social connections and support neighborhood development along the West North Avenue Corridor in Baltimore City (600 block to 3200 block, plus 250-yard buffer zone)

Authorizes up to $500,000 in existing Authority funds for grants to community development corporations, neighborhood associations, volunteer groups, and nonprofit organizations

Grants may fund social gatherings (block parties, festivals, parades), outreach initiatives (newsletters, digital content), volunteer stipends, event spaces, green spaces, community organizer training, and grant application support

Requires participating organizations to collaborate with corridor residents in planning events and ensure activities reflect neighborhood priorities and are led by residents where practicable

Mandates annual reporting to the Governor and General Assembly starting December 1, 2027, and requires the Authority to develop a scalable neighborhood-building template by July 1, 2029; effective October 1, 2026