This project implements the Department of Housing and Community Affairs' (DHCA) Countywide Façade Easement Program (CFEP) Grant for property and/or business owners in a commercial strip on east of New Hampshire Avenue and on the south side of Lockwood Drive in Silver Spring. The project will introduce a three-party pilot program where County, State/Federal, and Property/Business Owners can enter a public/private partnership to contribute a portion of total construction cost to invest and improve the area's commercial properties.

The project expects to begin facility planning from FY25 through FY28, followed by construction from FY26 through FY28.

This project will provide an incentive for property/business owners to invest in improving their property's exterior. This will include exterior façade and site improvements. DHCA has been approved to receive a State grant of $500,000 for this project. This grant funding will decrease the percentage the private/business owner is required to invest. This program will require the property owner to be a party in the public/private partnership as a funding source. This funding will comprehensively address the physical deterioration of an older commercial strip that is in need of updating to meet current market demands. All improvements must meet the requirements and criteria of the DHCA's existing Countywide Façade Easement program with an exception only for the percentage a property owner is required to invest.

DHCA will review the M-NCPPC sector plan for the White Oak community as a guide for this project. DHCA has been granted approval to receive $500,000 in State grant funding. In addition, DHCA Is continuing to seek additional funding resources. DHCA anticipates investing no more than $2,000,000 in County funds to complete this project, while the property owners' investment may vary. The percentage of private investment will be determined based on the project's scope. Private funding is not expected to exceed a third of the total cost to complete the project. To achieve a successful and comprehensive revitalization project, DHCA desires to obtain a 100% participation from all property owners. If 100% participation is not achieved, DHCA will assess the project and to determine if the public's investment is prudent or proceed with those who are ready to invest.

DHCA has a Countywide Façade Easement Program with the funds in place to partner and support this project financially and administratively. If needed, DHCA can shift funding from the Countywide Façade Easement CIP with approximately $1.98 million toward this pilot program in the White Oak Community.

DHCA will apply for additional federal funds if an opportunity is provided. The estimated breakdown for the 3-Party Public/Private Partnership in the total overall investment of $3.73M include $500,000 in State Aid, $1.98 million in County investment, and $1.25 million from property owner's investment.

Office of the County Executive, Regional Services Centers, Office of the County Attorney, Department of Transportation, Department of Permitting Services, Office of Procurement, the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Maryland Department of the Environment, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP).