Preservation Maryland today announced the passage of CB18-2026, authorizing a 40-year lease agreement with Howard County for the historic Ellicott City Jail at 1 Emory Street in Ellicott City. The legislation marks a major milestone in the effort to rehabilitate and reactivate one of the county’s most historically significant properties.
Constructed in 1851, the Historic Ellicott City Jail served as the county’s primary detention facility through the 1980s. The site holds a complex and difficult history: prior to the abolition of slavery in Maryland, it was used to imprison freedom seekers, and in later years it was the location of both documented and narrowly prevented lynchings. Vacant since 2008, the building is in urgent need of rehabilitation.
Today’s bill signing reflects our commitment to a Howard County that is investing in its people, honoring its past, and building for the future. CB18 will transform our historic jailhouse into an adaptive center for preservation, education, community engagement all while staying true to our past. -Howard County Executive Calvin Ball
Under the newly authorized lease, Preservation Maryland will lead a multimillion-dollar adaptive reuse of the property, transforming it into a dynamic center for preservation, education, and community engagement. A key partner in the project, University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, will establish a presence within the rehabilitated building to support research and workforce development in the preservation field.
Plans for the site include:
- Collaborative office and research space for faculty and students
- Community meeting and event space
- Historical interpretive exhibits acknowledging the site’s past
- Contemplative green space designed for reflection and resilience
- Headquarters for Preservation Maryland
“Preservation Maryland is grateful for the County’s leadership in recognizing the importance of protecting our shared historic resources,” said Laura Houston, Director of Revitalization Initiatives at Preservation Maryland. “This legislation represents a meaningful step forward in ensuring the long-term stewardship and public benefit of this historic site and is a strong example of what partnership can achieve. We’re proud to work alongside Howard County on this transformative project.”
In addition to the County’s ARPA grant, Preservation Maryland has also secured funding from Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, State Legislative Bond Bills, and other federal and philanthropic sources.
Michael Graves Architecture has been selected to lead design for the redevelopment project.Preservation Maryland anticipates breaking ground on this project in late 2026.