Pig Town residents oppose new health facility citing crime and community impact

The recent meeting of the Baltimore Board of Municipal & Zoning Appeals highlighted significant community concerns regarding a proposed addiction recovery facility on Washington Boulevard in the Pig Town neighborhood. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing fears that the facility would exacerbate existing issues with crime and disrupt the ongoing revitalization efforts in the area.

Community members expressed that the proposed facility is incompatible with the residential character of Pig Town, which is home to families and long-term residents. They pointed out that the neighborhood already hosts multiple similar services, leading to an overconcentration of such facilities within a 1.5-mile radius. Residents reported ongoing criminal activities, including drug use and sales, loitering, and theft, which they believe would be further aggravated by the introduction of the new facility.

Several speakers, including retired law enforcement officers and local business owners, shared personal experiences of increased crime and safety concerns. They emphasized that the presence of a recovery center could attract more individuals struggling with addiction, potentially leading to more visible drug-related activities in the neighborhood. One resident, a business owner, noted that clients have expressed reluctance to visit due to safety fears, highlighting the negative impact on local businesses.

Supporters of the facility argued for the importance of addiction recovery services, but many residents countered that the current environment is not conducive to recovery. They urged the board to consider the long-term implications of approving the facility, stressing that it could undermine years of community investment aimed at improving the neighborhood.

The meeting underscored a deep commitment among residents to maintain the integrity and safety of Pig Town. As they continue to advocate for their community's needs, the board faces the challenge of balancing the demand for addiction services with the concerns of local residents. The outcome of this appeal could significantly influence the future of both the neighborhood and the individuals seeking recovery services.