From the Inner Harbor to the Middle Branch, a massive transformation is underway
(Melody Simmons)
BALTIMORE BUSINESS JOURNAL –
To some, upscaling much of that waterfront is long overdue after decades of heavy use and, in the case of Harborplace, neglect and vacancy. The results could help jumpstart another urban renaissance that would finally include some waterfront parcels located away from the Inner Harbor, says Brad Rogers, executive director of the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, a nonprofit overseeing the rebirth of the Middle Branch shoreline.
Upgrades to the Middle Branch waterfront are happening in tandem with the One Westport development that is reshaping the landscape with new residential units that include luxury townhomes selling for up to $500,000 each this spring. The project led by Stonewall Capital is laser-focused on creating waterfront access through 14 acres of new parkland with partners including the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, the Westport Community Economic Development Corp. and other state and local organizations. That parkland will connect with the Middle Branch Park nearby. A new shoreline promenade will also be developed.
Funding for those upgrades includes private capital, state casino revenues, state and local funds and foundation support, Rogers said. The additions bring on a new level of social and economic impact to a portion of the city long ignored, he added.
“South Baltimore neighborhoods were long divided from their waterfront, which restricted their ability to drive change and build their own economies,” Rogers said. “By reconnecting them to their own shoreline, we are now supporting residents and empowering them to drive positive change. As a result, the Middle Branch will be as important to Baltimore’s economy in the 21st century as the Inner Harbor was in the 20th century.”
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