Action for Affordable Housing in Downtown Columbia

PATH leaders at the hearing on November 19th.

Eighteen PATH leaders showed up at the County Council on Wednesday, November 19 to support a plan that would create new affordable housing in downtown Columbia.

PATH leaders Carrie Britt and Stephen McGovern testified in support of two bills that would enable the construction of a new lakefront library and 320 mixed-income homes, including 160 affordable units. 

Carrie Britt from First Baptist Church of Guilford shared:

“My family story is not unique. I hear stories from people in my neighborhood and church community who want to remain in Howard County but are not sure they can afford it.

We’re a diverse, inclusive, equitable community that should support, encourage and provide its residents with resources and services that will make all people successful.”

Stephen McGovern from Patapsco Friends Meeting shared:

“I want [my granddaughter’s] teacher to continue to help her and the countless other children that will come through her classroom. I don’t want her to decide to move away because she can’t find a home in Howard County. I want to live in a county where amazing teachers like [my granddaughter’s] are not just service providers but my neighbors and friends.”

These bills would help fulfill the commitment the county made in the Downtown Columbia Plan to build over 900 affordable homes in this area. PATH organized for that commitment in 2016.

PATH leaders also were invited to speak at the announcement of these new bills on October 23rd—read more here.

Read more about the plan in this Baltimore Banner article.

Congratulations, PATH, for making an impact on affordable housing in Howard County!