The Daily Record (Joe Nathanson)
Imagine a city with nearly a dozen miles of green ribbons of land bordering local waterways. Then imagine that these stretches of shoreline include trails to accommodate walkers, joggers, scooters and cyclists. Further imagine that these trails have more connecting paths that bring you to neighborhood parks, outdoor recreation spaces, and picnic areas, as well as linking you to the adjoining city neighborhoods.
That city could be Baltimore, as current plans move forward in the effort to Reimagine Middle Branch. That refers to the master plan recently adopted unanimously by the Baltimore Planning Commission to enhance 11 miles of the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River as it winds its way through South Baltimore. The initiative is intended to transform 19 neighborhoods adjoining the waterway from Brooklyn and Curtis Bay in the south to Pigtown and Barre Circle to the north.
Recently I heard a presentation by Ethan Cohen, who serves as senior adviser, economic and community development, in the office of Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. The setting of the meeting was itself an eye-opener. The new Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center, on Reedbird Avenue adjacent to the Cherry Hill neighborhood, was bustling with activity. It seemed that every available exercise bicycle and other piece of cardio equipment was in use. The 35,000 square-feet facility, opened in November, also features three indoor swimming pools, a gymnasium with a basketball court, classrooms, a maker space, and a room for community meetings.
This $23.1 million investment was accomplished with funding from the city, state, and about $2 million from the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership (SBGP). The partnership is the authority established to receive and manage that portion of the stream of revenue from video lottery terminals and designated for casino-Impacted communities. Currently the casino funding generates an estimated $8 million to $9 million annually.