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October 23, 2026 |
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Dear neighbors,
Last Saturday, the 26th annual Baltimore Running Festival brought thousands of runners through our City's streets for one of my favorite weekends of the year. There's something special about seeing Baltimore's neighborhoods come alive as residents gather along the route to cheer on friends and complete strangers alike. Even the early morning road closures seem like a small price to pay for the excitement that fills our streets each fall. |
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Lea and I were out cheering agin with my trusty Super Mario power-up sign. I've been using this same sign for years, and what you can't see in the photo are the many layers of duct tape holding it together on the back. Still going strong!
Congratulations to everyone who raced. We loved cheering you on! |
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Tragedy in Highlandtown
Last week's shooting on East Lombard Street brought unimaginable grief to Highlandtown, claiming the lives of Erick Juarez-Aviles and Juan Espinoza-Trampa while injuring three others, including two teenage boys ages 15 and 15. My thoughts are with their families, those who were injured, and the Highlandtown neighbors shaken by this violence.
Baltimore's progress in reducing violent crime matters, but we cannot overlook the fear and uncertainty that incidents like this leave behind. Residents deserve to feel secure walking through their neighborhoods and raising their families. As police continue their investigation, we must remain focused on strengthening community safety and building on the efforts that brought violence down across our City. |
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Maryland's General Election
Early voting officially began yesterday, giving Marylanders the opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of the November 3 General Election. From October 22 through October 29, early voting centers will open daily from 7AM to 8PM, including this weekend. Residents can visit any early voting center within Baltimore City or their county, while Election Day voters must use their assigned polling location on Tuesday, November 3. For those voting by mail, October 27 is the deadline to request a ballot for delivery by mail or fax, and online requests for emailed ballots remain open through October 30. Maryland also allows eligible residents to register in person during early voting and on Election Day with proof of residence.
I encourage everyone to visit the Maryland State Board of Elections website to check their registration, locate their polling place, review the questions on their ballot, and make a plan to vote. Our democracy depends on participation, and I hope every eligible Marylander takes the opportunity to make their voice heard. |
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Following Progress on the Francis Scott Key Bridge Rebuild
Rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge remains a critical priority for Baltimore and our entire region, particularly for the families and businesses that continue to feel the effects of its collapse. Earlier this month, the Maryland Transportation Authority launched a new Key Bridge Rebuild Dashboard, allowing the public to follow construction milestones and better understand the work underway on the Patapsco River.
You can follow the construction progress and upcoming milestones through the Key Bridge Rebuild Dashboard. |
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A Major Economic Investment at Sparrows Point
For generations, Sparrows Point stood at the heart of Maryland's industrial economy, providing livelihoods for thousands of families and helping build our nation. Earlier this month, Anduril Industries announced plans for a 3.7 billion advanced manufacturing facility at Tradepoint Atlantic that is expected to create more than 3,100 permanent jobs. The planned facility would manufacture components for the U.S. Navy submarines, bringing significant new economic activity to a waterfront long associated with American industry. I welcome plans for a nearby workforce training center that could connect Marylanders with the skills needed to pursue these careers. |
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Federal Interference Threatens Maryland's Offshore Wind Future
Maryland families continue to struggle with rising electricity costs, and expanding our supply of reliable, affordable energy remains essential to addressing that burden. The Trump administration continues to create obstacles for new domestic energy development. Last week, federal officials requested reconsideration of a construction permit for US Wind's proposed offshore wind project near Ocean City, reopening questions surrounding a project that already underwent years of environmental review. While concerns about commercial fishing and marine ecosystems deserve thoughtful consideration, repeated regulatory uncertainty threatens investments that could help meet our region's growing electricity demand. Through legislation passed in recent Sessions, the General Assembly worked to accelerate new in-State generation and strengthen protections for utility customers Maryland needs a federal partner that supports responsible energy development and the long-term work of making electricity more affordable. |
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More News
New federal rules affecting SNAP and Medicaid could put food assistance and health care coverage at risk for thousands of Marylanders, particularly as additional documentation and work requirements take effect. Residents receiving these benefits should pay close attention to renewal notices, keep their contact information current, and respond promptly to requests for eligibility information. Some Marylanders who lost SNAP benefits because of work requirements may now be eligible to reapply for a new three-month period of assistance. Visit Maryland Benefits for SNAP assistance or Maryland Health Connection for guidance on Medicaid changes beginning in January 2027. |
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The Chesapeake Bay received its best health grade in two decades in the latest annual report card, earning a C+. Closer to home, researchers found improvements in the Patapsco and Back Rivers, part of a broader positive trend across the Bay. While considerable challenges remain, these results show why continued investment in restoration matters.
Maryland's Accountability and Implementation Board wants to temporarily suspend school visits by expert review teams and direct more resources toward instructional coaching for teachers through fiscal year 2029. The proposal aims to provide educators with more direct instructional support as Maryland continues implementing the Blueprint for Maryland's Future. As a former classroom teacher, I understand the value of practical guidance that helps educators strengthen their instruction, and the General Assembly will carefully consider how these recommendations could improve student outcomes.
Governor Moore recently directed the Maryland Higher Education Commission to review campus sexual assault policies and develop recommendations for improvement within 90 days, following disturbing allegations involving students at Cornell University. Every student deserves a safe learning environment and confidence that their institution will respond appropriately when they report misconduct. This review presents an opportunity to examine where existing protections fall short and strengthen accountability across Maryland's colleges and universities.
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One of my favorite neighborhood traditions returns tomorrow, October 24, as Patterson Park welcomes the 27th annual Great Baltimore Lantern Parade and Día de los Muertos Festival. The free celebration begins at 4PM near the Pulaski Monument, followed by the illuminated parade at 7PM. With handmade lanterns lighting up the park and neighbors gathering for an evening of celebration, this event offers another wonderful opportunity to experience the creativity that makes Baltimore special. I hope you can get out and enjoy it!
As temperatures begin to drop, I want to remind residents that Maryland offers financial assistance to eligible households struggling with heating and electric bills. The Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs accepts applications year-round, including support for qualifying customers carrying past-due utility balances. Residents can apply online through Maryland Benefits or call 1-800-332-6347 for help navigating the process. I encourage anyone concerned about affording winter utility costs to explore these programs before bills become overwhelming. |
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If you need help navigating a State agency, have a question about legislation, or want to raise an issue affecting you or your neighborhood, please reach out. Include a brief description of the issue and the best way to contact you so my team can follow up.
Email bill.ferguson@senate.state.md.us or call 410-841-3600. |
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Senator Bill Ferguson 46th Legislative District | Baltimore City President of the Maryland Senate |
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