Rivers & Roads Selected to Lead Cambridge’s Lead-Safe Workforce Development Plan

Cambridge, MD – The City of Cambridge has chosen Rivers & Roads Consulting to design its Lead-Safe Workforce Development Plan, a project that connects housing, health, and economic opportunity into a single strategy for community revitalization.

For decades, the presence of lead-based paint has been more than a housing issue—it has been a barrier to healthy neighborhoods, economic mobility, and long-term growth. By expanding the pool of Cambridge residents certified to perform lead abatement and remediation, this plan aims to break that cycle. A stronger local workforce means safer homes, higher household incomes, and a city better positioned to attract and retain investment.

“Lead abatement is a cornerstone of community development,” said Sam Shoge, Partner at Rivers & Roads Consulting,” said Sam Shoge, Partner at Rivers & Roads Consulting. “When residents are trained and hired to do this work, they aren’t just fixing homes; they’re building careers, creating stability for their families, and contributing to the revitalization of Cambridge as a whole.”

The plan will engage local contractors, provide clear certification pathways for residents, and equip the City with the tools needed to connect training directly to job opportunities. Outreach will be intentional and accessible, ensuring that those who can benefit most from this opportunity are aware and able to participate.

With this effort, Cambridge is not only addressing an urgent public health issue but also leveraging it as a catalyst for broader community renewal—demonstrating how bold, practical action can transform challenges into long-term opportunities.