A rally for affordable housing in Chevy Chase, organized by Montgomery for All and Action in Montgomery, drew a crowd of more than 100 residents.

At the event, speakers shared their stories about housing issues in Montgomery County. In particular, caretakers and staff at Chevy Chase’s many senior residences have been asking for affordable housing closer to where they work.

Councilman Gabe Albornoz spoke at the event, saying there was a need to strike a public balance between county interests and legitimate community views.

“Montgomery County urgently needs more housing, especially more affordable housing,” Action in Montgomery said in a statement. The median Chevy Chase home price is currently over $800,000 and the average rent is $2,409 per month.

Screams from rally fans have called for the renovation of the Chevy Chase Library, with the inclusion of affordable housing. The newly renovated Silver Spring Library now includes senior housing and child care. According to Montgomery for All, the library’s location near the future Purple Line subway station makes it the perfect location.

Signs and chants declared, “If not here, where? If not now when?” In response, a few residents who objected to the idea of ​​building affordable housing in Chevy Chase shouted “Never!”, “Elsewhere!” and “It will make it look like Anacostia!”, according to rally participants.

At one point, supporters started chanting “This Land is Your Land”, but protesters tried to muffle the song talking about it.

“From Chevy Chase to Langley Park and across the county, we’re working for housing and public transit that works for everyone – today was just the start,” Action in Montgomery tweeted.

How good does it feel to join so many friends and neighbors calling #PublicLandforPublicGood?! 😄☀️

From Chevy Chase to Langley Park and across the county, we’re working for housing and public transit that works for everyone – today was just the start. ✨ pic.twitter.com/rfXVznSh8X

— Action in Montgomery (@AIMforPower) April 25, 2022