FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Baltimore Community Lending and Harford Bank Partner to Expand Access to Capital in Harford County
Collaborative financing supports mixed-use development and small business ownership transition
Baltimore, MD — Baltimore Community Lending (BCL) and Harford Bank have partnered to deliver flexible financing solutions that support both real estate development and small business continuity in Harford County, demonstrating how mission-driven and traditional lenders can work together to meet evolving community needs.
Through a strategic participation lending approach, the partnership has supported two recent projects that reflect a shared commitment to local investment, economic growth, and long-term community impact.
The first project represents a significant step in expanding access to development capital in the region. BCL and Harford Bank are jointly financing the acquisition of a 2.06-acre mixed-use property located along South Philadelphia Boulevard in Aberdeen. The site includes three commercial storefronts and multiple residential units, with plans to further activate the property through future development.
The borrower, a local entrepreneur with deep ties to the Aberdeen community, is leveraging this investment to not only stabilize existing assets but also lay the groundwork for future affordable and workforce housing. The project reflects the type of forward-looking development that strengthens communities while creating pathways to long-term neighborhood growth.
Harford Bank is serving as the lead lender on the transaction, with BCL participating to help close the financing gap and support the project’s broader community impact goals.
In addition to real estate investment, the partnership has also supported the transition of a long-standing local business. Through a separate participation loan, BCL and Harford Bank financed the acquisition of a local pool service and supply company that has operated in Harford and Cecil Counties for more than three decades.
The transaction enables three longtime employees to purchase the business from its retiring owner, preserving jobs, maintaining continuity for customers, and creating a pathway to ownership for the next generation of business leaders.
“Strong communities are built when financial institutions work together to create opportunities that may not happen through traditional lending alone,” said Watchen Bruce, President and CEO of Baltimore Community Lending. “Our partnership with Harford Bank reflects a shared commitment to investing in people, supporting local businesses, and advancing development that creates long-term value for the community. This work is ultimately about expanding access and creating pathways for economic growth.”
“At Harford Bank, we recognize the value of collaboration in meeting the needs of our communities,” said Lisa Bair, Vice President, Business Development Officer. “Our partnership with BCL allows us to support projects that may not fit traditional models alone, while still delivering meaningful economic impact across the region.”
Together, these projects highlight the power of partnership in expanding access to capital, supporting both physical development and business sustainability across Harford County.
About Baltimore Community Lending
Baltimore Community Lending (BCL) is a mission-driven financial institution dedicated to providing innovative lending solutions that support real estate development, small businesses, and community revitalization efforts across the region.
About Harford Bank
Harford Bank is a community-focused financial institution committed to delivering personalized banking solutions that support individuals, businesses, and communities throughout Harford County and beyond.
