Downtown is on the RISE. With more than $6.9 billion of investment in development downtown between 2018 and 2028, the recent announcement of Baltimore as one of the 31 inaugural Tech Hubs, which will allow Baltimore City to unlock up to $75M in federal investment, and the throngs of visitors coming to downtown to cheer on the Orioles and the Ravens sports teams, attend concerts, and shop small businesses – the renaissance of downtown Baltimore is happening now!
When I initially announced the concept of Downtown RISE last fall, it was meant to be a framework to guide downtown Baltimore’s next chapter and chart a course to making downtown even more dynamic, inclusive, and prosperous than it is now. Already, our downtown is Baltimore’s fastest growing residential neighborhood, and for our city to grow into its full potential, we must build on that progress. Since that announcement, members of my team have worked closely with Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and a number of our stakeholders to engage community members from across the city to shape and build a vision for the future of downtown. The result of that work is this complete strategic action plan: Downtown RISE.
The Downtown Management Area is a 106-block business improvement district in the heart of downtown for which DPOB has responsibility. It encompasses most of the downtown core.
The 1-mile radius from the intersection Pratt and Light streets is at the heart of downtown and is often used to track economic data related to downtown. This area includes most of the DMA in addition to including the Inner Harbor, represented in pink.
And, this work cannot be done in a vacuum, so the entirety of Baltimore City is considered as well while analyzing the Downtown area to ensure that the downtown also benefits and enhances the rest of the city.
Rise of Economic and Community Development focuses on fostering a thriving business community within Baltimore City's downtown core, revitalizing the downtown area and driving economic growth. Critical components include: streamlining permitting and regulatory processes, removing barriers and incentivizing businesses to operate in the downtown core, and encouraging a “return to office” strategy. Supporting and retaining small businesses and attracting new businesses and amenities to the downtown core enriches the local ecosystem and enhances the area's overall appeal. A thriving business ecosystem attracts investment, creates job opportunities, and generates economic prosperity, ultimately enhancing the livability and vitality of our downtown.
Rise of Infrastructure Development focuses on the revitalization and enhancement of Baltimore City's downtown core through public infrastructure: sidewalks, roads, park space, public transportation, signage, and advocacy for large capital projects. Recognizing the critical role of the public built environment in urban revitalization, this strategic focus aims to foster a vibrant and sustainable downtown landscape conducive to economic growth, community well-being, and environmental resilience. The care and maintenance of the public built environment is paramount to revitalizing the downtown area.
Rise of Arts, Culture, and Entertainment focuses on nurturing and enhancing the vibrant cultural ecosystem within Baltimore City's downtown core, home of the BROMO Arts District and major cultural assets such as The Hippodrome, Everyman Theater, and CFG Bank Arena. Accessibility of arts, culture, and entertainment is critical for a vibrant downtown. Supporting and promoting physical art, events, and engagement with beloved cultural assets creates dynamic and inclusive spaces where people can come together to celebrate and connect.
Rise of Public Safety and Cleanliness focuses on enhancing the overall livability of and experience in Baltimore City's downtown core, with an emphasis on safety, security, and cleanliness. To steward the successes of downtown, the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB), city agencies, and other stakeholders will collaborate to build and sustain a safe, clean, and easily accessible downtown area. Safety and security are fundamental pillars of a thriving urban environment. By prioritizing the safety of residents, workers, and visitors, the downtown core becomes a more inviting and desirable place to live, work, and play. Coupled with enhanced cleaning, graffiti removal, power washing, trash pickup, and dumping prevention, downtown will feel more inviting and recreation friendly.