For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
“I’ve always believed that affordable housing and environmental sustainability don’t have to be separate goals; they can go hand in hand,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This project at Allium Place is a great example of how we can build homes that are not only affordable but also support healthier communities and cleaner water. I appreciate Habitat for Humanity for being a strong partner and our DEP team for helping to make this happen. We need more projects like this that show how thoughtful design and collaboration can make a real difference.”
The initiative was celebrated by dozens of volunteers, local leaders and residents—including Councilmember Natali Fani-González, who represents the area.
“Allium Place is a great testament to how the public and private sectors can work together to deliver an inclusive and amazing community right in the heart of District 6,” said Councilmember Fani-González. “The addition of shade trees and environmentally friendly landscaping will enrich a thriving community where folks from all walks of life are calling it home. I am proud to have supported this project while on the Planning Board, and I am beyond grateful to see it become a reality.”
The gardens will help manage stormwater, reduce erosion, expand the County’s tree canopy and attract pollinators. Native plants used in the landscapes were grown by high school students through DEP’s RainScapes School Growing Program, providing both environmental and educational value.
“This progress is a testament to what’s possible when we bring together dedicated teams from public and nonprofit sectors,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “We’re proud of this inaugural pilot and excited to grow key partnerships, including this relationship with Habitat for Humanity, to collaborate on many more innovative, community-centered environmental projects.”
Officials hope this effort at Allium Place will serve as a model for future developments across the County. The County and Habitat plan to continue partnering on similar efforts to bring climate-conscious design to neighborhoods throughout Montgomery County.
“We are so grateful for Montgomery County's continued support for the creation of affordable homes in the Allium Place community,” said President & CEO for Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland Jeffrey Dee. “Montgomery County elected officials and staff have provided support for the community every step of the way and they are now continuing that support through the Department of Environmental Protection by providing sustainable landscape plants and trees. We look forward to continuing to work together to build affordable homes and healthy living environments in partnership with the Montgomery County community.”
Allium Place includes a mix of rental and ownership opportunities—apartments, condos and single-family homes—with a focus on deeply affordable units for families. With 195 units, Allium Place is one of the largest affordable housing projects recently completed in Montgomery County.
Visit the DEP Website for more information on the RainScapes and Tree Montgomery programs and Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland for information on Allium Place.
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