In Ocean City, Comptroller Lierman toured the site of the former Phillips Crab House, which is now undergoing renovations to provide housing for temporary and seasonal workers and students. Housing affordability remains a concern for Maryland residents, including individuals who live and work in Worcester County. Between 2019 and 2022, data found in the Comptroller’s 2024 State of the Economy report shows that housing costs in Worcester County increased by 51%, while housing inventory decreased by 70%.

Alleviating housing supply and affordability issues is important for towns like Ocean City because it helps attract and retain a workforce that will fill tourism, manufacturing, and other positions that support the local economy. “Seeing new and transformative uses of old buildings into different types of housing is so essential to building a stronger economy now and over the long term,” Comptroller Lierman said while reflecting on the project. “A big piece of the cost of living in Maryland is making sure that we have housing that everyone can afford, so seeing models like this is really encouraging.”