Downtown Baltimore Focus Areas.

Recognizing the significance of efficiency and predictability for businesses contemplating investment decisions, Baltimore City must upgrade technology and augment staff in agencies handling permitting and licensing approvals. The City has already invested nearly $6 million to overhaul its permit system. Scheduled to be implemented in late 2024, this system upgrade is anticipated to significantly reduce the bureaucratic friction that often hinders business expansion and relocation, marking a pivotal step toward optimizing administrative operations. Through implementation of PermitStat, the City will monitor staffing and operations to ensure permit approval and licensing processes are as straightforward and predictable as possible, review options for third party plan reviews to expedite the review process, and explore establishing a one-stop-shop permitting model.

To bolster restaurant activity within the DMA, the city, in collaboration with downtown stakeholders, successfully advocated for state bill HB1089 to amend requirements for Class B (BWL) beer, wine, and liquor licenses. This collaboration will continue with implementation of the legislation and attraction of restaurants.

Requirements for a Class B (BWL) license pose significant challenges for hopeful restaurateurs in general. Requirements for downtown restaurants were even higher, including a capital investment of at least $700,000 and average daily receipts from sale of food that are at least 65% of the daily total, hindering the ability for new restaurants to open downtown and obtain a new license. HB 1089 removed requirements on seating and capital investment, instead requiring restaurants to establish a bona fide kitchen through the Health Department, and expect operators to enter a memorandum of understanding with DPOB. These changes will allow for small restaurants/cafes to open downtown, supporting economic growth and community spaces.

For close to a decade, DPOB has been providing flexible grants to retail businesses that choose to relocate to vacant storefronts in the DMA. Recently, DPOB has secured additional funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants, aimed at increasing both the annual number of supported businesses and the average grant size, now averaging approximately $20,000 per recipient. To sustain this initiative, and express its continued support of this critical program, the city plans to continue funding through a combination of Facade Improvement Program Grants and other city funding sources. This strategic approach not only revitalizes vacant storefronts but also injects vitality into the downtown core, fostering economic growth, attracting foot traffic, and enhancing the overall vibrancy and appeal of downtown Baltimore for residents and visitors.

DPOB Grant Programs

Recognizing the impact of reduced office occupancy on the economy and vitality of downtown Baltimore post-pandemic, implementation of a comprehensive "Return to Office Strategy” is critical. The shift towards remote or hybrid work models has adversely affected the commercial office space market, businesses reliant on downtown foot traffic, and downtown transportation, energy, and vitality. Thus, a strategic approach is necessary to revitalize downtown and stimulate economic recovery. The city will partner with State government partners and private companies to encourage a comprehensive return to the office strategy to increase the number of employees in the DMA.

DPOB is committed to further enhancing the Downtown BOOST Program, an initiative designed to foster the long-term success of BIPOC-owned businesses in the DMA. With the forthcoming implementation of Rounds 3 and 4, this program will continue to provide grant funding and a robust cohort model tailored to the unique needs of BIPOC entrepreneurs. Supporting entrepreneurship in the BIPOC community is critical to fostering equity and inclusivity in downtown business endeavors. By empowering BIPOC-owned businesses through targeted support and resources, such as mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial assistance, the Downtown BOOST Program contributes to leveling the playing field and creating pathways to economic prosperity for historically marginalized communities. This initiative not only enhances diversity and representation but also strengthens the overall economic vitality and resilience of the downtown core by fostering a thriving ecosystem of diverse and inclusive businesses.

The high cost of childcare in Baltimore significantly exceeds the financial reach of many families, with center-based care for children aged 2-5 averaging over $14,500 annually—twice the in-state tuition at Coppin State University. For infants and toddlers, these costs soar even higher. This financial burden is a key factor driving families away from urban living, contributing to the suburban migration trend and the hollowing out of the city center. Furthermore, the lack of affordable childcare options is a major obstacle for workforce participation, especially among women, exacerbating the challenge of economic recovery and growth.

To counteract these trends, the City must review and reform permitting regulations with an eye toward facilitating the establishment and expansion of childcare facilities downtown. This includes identifying underutilized public spaces that could be repurposed into childcare centers, providing critical services to families while revitalizing vacant storefronts. The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development should develop a pipeline of qualified childcare professionals through targeted training and certification programs, in partnership with local educational institutions.

By increasing the availability of affordable childcare, we can make our city a more attractive place to live and work, encouraging families to stay and enticing new residents to move in. Moreover, expanding childcare access downtown has the potential to breathe new life into vacant spaces, contributing to the vibrancy and economic vitality of our urban core. By providing affordable childcare downtown, parents will be incentivized to leave the remote workforce and return to the office, reigniting the dynamic, collaborative spirit that has always been a hallmark of Baltimore's business community.

DPOB is initiating a Downtown Restaurant Recovery Program with the objective of growing culinary options and revitalizing vacant restaurant spaces in the DMA. This program seeks to enlist between eight to ten new restaurants, extending financial support of at least $100,000 to each establishment, to assist both emerging and established restaurateurs. By filling vacant restaurant spaces, the program effectively combats vacancy challenges while enriching downtown’s dining and retail environment. Moreover, it endeavors to stimulate commercial engagement, fostering activity beyond the conventional 9am-5pm workday.

The City of Baltimore and DPOB will embark on a comprehensive marketing and advertising campaign aimed at promoting DPOB's research findings on residential demand in downtown Baltimore. Targeting developers, large institutions, and assets within the DMA, this campaign seeks to raise awareness of the critical need for residential and housing development to meet the city's evolving needs.

The City of Baltimore will embark on a thorough exploration and review of potential changes to waive or modify building code provisions to facilitate office-to-residential conversions within the downtown core. This initiative aims to encourage, incentivize, and streamline the process of converting office spaces into residential units, thereby addressing the increasing residential demand in downtown Baltimore.

The COVID-19 pandemic widened the gap related to housing and healthcare inequities for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. To address this growing need, cities across the country began acquiring hotels and motels as alternative options for housing amid overcrowded shelters and other spaces. In early 2024, the Mayor’s Office announced a deal to acquire two hotel properties as part of the City’s response to the nationwide housing crisis and the subsequent rise in homelessness. This latest hotel acquisition is a critical extension of MOHS’s effort to provide housing stability, emergency shelter, and supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Baltimore City. While these two properties sit just outside the DMA, they are within the 1-mile radius and will help serve as housing options for unhoused individuals across downtown.

The City of Baltimore is embarking on a strategic initiative to reimagine its downtown government administrative campus. A task force will be convened to envision the future of these facilities, focusing on optimizing the city's footprint and driving economic development. This effort aims to analyze the potential for consolidating and repurposing existing spaces to reduce portfolio costs while identifying opportunities for value creation. Ultimately, this holistic approach seeks to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and community engagement within Baltimore's governmental infrastructure.

Retaining major office tenants in the DMA is critical to decreasing office vacancy. 80% of economic growth generally comes from existing business. As office tenant preferences have evolved to include larger floor plates, open offices, shared amenities, and a campus-like environment, newer developments beyond the tradition downtown core have attracted several office users previously located in older downtown office structures. Ensuring a vibrant future in downtown means keeping current office users in downtown. BDC has identified approximately 16 office users with expiring leases in the next 4 years with space more than 25,000 square feet. BDC will lead the retention effort by meeting with the businesses to discuss staying in Downtown. BDC will also meet with building owners to discuss improvements required to retain existing office tenants and discuss any potential incentives that may be applicable.

1. Advocate for and implement legislation to establish a “first year free” program, which would waive the cost of initial registration fees, initial license fees, first-year permit, and other applicable fees for qualifying businesses.

2. Explore feasibility of waiving minor privilege fees in the DMA.

3. Tax Incentive Exploration for BIPOC Business Attraction.

4. Grocery Store Attraction.

5. Work with Clerk of the Court to digitize business licensing and permitting process for new businesses.

6. Continue to pursue strategies to combat downtown office vacancy.

Phase I of Rash Field has become a beloved park in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, frequently seeing daily average usage eclipse 1,000 people. In collaboration with the Waterfront Partnership, Phase II of Rash Field will add gardens, a beach area with volleyball courts, lawn and fields, and a new waterfront plaza. The Scott Administration is working to close the $4 million funding gap for this important project so that construction can begin in 2024.

In consideration of the dense downtown population of people and their pets, there is an incredible deficit of parks and open space downtown. DPOB creatively converted a wide median into a dog run, known as Liberty Dog Park, to help address this need by building one of the only dog areas within the downtown core. However, with increases in residents and activation of the popularity of the newly renovated CFG Bank Arena and other surrounding office products, there is an opportunity to renovate, expand and enhance the park not just for dog owners, but for all people. DPOB was granted $4 million from the State of Maryland to undergo this capital project, and the design process is underway. The prioritization of Liberty Dog Park promotes community well-being, enhances public health, creates a more inclusive environment, improves aesthetics and livability, boosts property values, and connects assets.

DPOB partners in the maintenance of tree wells, plantings, and landscaping throughout downtown, and is working with a landscape architecture firm to design and plan for additional greening throughout the DMA.

All lighting downtown will be cataloged and, where appropriate, planned for repair, replacement, and installation of additional fixtures. Proper lighting plays a crucial role in creating a secure urban environment, contributing to the overall perception of safety and enhancing the quality of life for residents, visitors, and workers. Lighting enhancements improve safety and navigability, while supporting an environment for economic development.

The pedestrian experience needs to be a priority for downtown. Pedestrian infrastructure will be cataloged and assessed, and, where appropriate, planned for repair, replacement, and improvement, including sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signaling. Proper pedestrian infrastructure enhances connectivity and vibrancy and is essential for creating a safe, accessible, and enjoyable urban environment for residents, visitors, and workers alike.

Wayfinding signage plays a critical role in guiding residents, visitors, and workers to their destinations, enhancing navigation, and improving the overall experience of downtown.

Maintaining roads in the downtown core is critical to attracting visitors and spurring economic development. As part of the actions outlined in Downtown RISE, the city’s Department of Transportation started to proactively identify and fill potholes, repair broken sidewalks, and restripe streets.

A portion of capital funding from the Maryland General Assembly will be used by DPOB to make improvements to bus and metro stops in the DMA. DPOB recognizes the importance of beautifying and enhancing the exteriors of transit stops, including subway metros and bus stops, and will partner with MTA and DOT to further these enhancements. Transit stops serve as critical points of entry and first impressions for residents, commuters, and visitors arriving in the city, often shaping their perception of the neighborhood and broader downtown area. By investing in the beautification of transit stops, Baltimore aims to create welcoming and visually appealing environments that reflect the city's character and identity.

For decades, the Baltimore Convention Center (BCC) has been a cornerstone of the local economy, catalyzing tourism and bringing pride to the city and region. In Fiscal Year 2019 alone, event activity at the BCC was estimated to generate approximately $507.2 million in total output, supporting 4,380 total jobs and $203.7 million in total earnings at the state level. Moreover, tax revenues generated from BCC-related activities were estimated to be around $42.2 million for the same period, with the state benefiting from approximately 70% of these revenues. These figures underscore the BCC’s substantial contribution to economic vitality, highlighting the urgency and necessity of securing additional funding for its enhancement.

Recently enacted state legislation (SB 896) establishes a task force to provide advice regarding creation of a new entity or development of a new approach to manage the Baltimore Convention Center as part of a strategic move toward aligning incentives for securing the necessary funding. By advocating for this enhancement project, we not only address the immediate infrastructure and operational needs of the BCC, but also lay the groundwork for a sustainable model of governance and management that can attract further investment. This initiative is about more than just maintaining a facility; it's about reimagining and revitalizing the BCC as a beacon of economic development and cultural vitality downtown. Through strategic investments and aligned incentives, the city can ensure the Convention Center remains a key driver of economic activity, job creation, and vitality in our city, especially in our downtown core.

Incorporating the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), and the University of Maryland Medical Systems (UMMS) into the strategic planning for downtown Baltimore’s redevelopment is imperative for sustainable growth and innovation. Both institutions play a pivotal role in the City’s economic landscape, contributing significantly in the healthcare, education, and research sectors. With Baltimore’s recent designation as a Federal Tech Hub focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology—particularly in predictive technologies aimed at enhancing health outcomes—these institutions stand at the threshold of unprecedented growth opportunities.

Over the last year, the Mayor’s Office has been collaborating with a Downtown Stakeholder group that includes government, nonprofit, and private stakeholders, on an infrastructure master planning process for the future of our downtown. That process is comprehensive and is actively underway; it includes studying the street grid, connecting downtown assets, understanding traffic patterns, and making our downtown more livable and vibrant. That work will continue to be informed by the Department of Planning’s citywide comprehensive planning process and will culminate in a community engagement effort in the coming months.

1. Improvement of Micromobility Infrastructure

2. Ensure Equitable Outcomes for The Redline Project

3. City Gateway & Enhancement Projects at Conway St, Howard St, and Pratt St.

4. Investment in Vehicular Signal Timing

5. Sharpen Focus on Vacant & Blighted Private Property in the DMA

6. Reorient traffic at Light & Pratt Street for McKeldin Park & Waterfront Connection

The Bromo Arts District is a key feature within DPOB’s DMA. DPOB supports the program and initiatives of the Bromo Arts District which strengthens the creative community and visitor experience within Downtown through the production of collaborative large scale events, promotion of diverse programming and opportunities, resource sharing, and arts advocacy. The arts are essential in the creation and expansion of Downtown. Over 400 events take place in Bromo annually, resulting in more than 275,000 annual visits from individuals experiencing live performances, gallery exhibitions, and open studios. The growth of the creative economy directly impacts local artists and has a sizable secondary impact on adjacent industries.

The city will launch Operation: Physical Art, a multifaceted initiative prioritizing and implementing physical art installations throughout the downtown core. Physical art plays a crucial role in enhancing the vibrancy, identity, and livability of urban spaces, serving as a catalyst for cultural enrichment, community engagement, tourism, and economic development. By integrating various forms of physical art into the downtown landscape, Baltimore seeks to create memorable and inspiring experiences for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

The digital signs located within the North Harbor ASSC (Area of Special Sign Control) within the DMA enliven streets and neighborhoods. In addition to being a public-facing platform to host local art, community event information, and emergency messaging, these installations offer placemaking and branding opportunities for area businesses. Revenue generated from these billboards allows for further neighborhood investment. This signage can also be leveraged to attract large meetings and conventions to Baltimore, to welcome those visitors, and to market opportunities downtown.

As part of its efforts to enhance downtown vibrancy, the city is evaluating public performance licensing to encourage busking and street performances. Recognizing the importance of creative expression and cultural enrichment in urban spaces, this process aims to harness the energy and talent of local artists to create a dynamic and engaging city environment. By permitting busking and street performances, the city seeks to attract visitors to downtown areas, offering unique and spontaneous entertainment experiences. These performances not only add to the city's cultural landscape but also serve as a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and connect with the community. Additionally, busking and street performances have the potential to bolster the local economy by drawing crowds to downtown businesses and restaurants, stimulating spending and supporting the livelihoods of artists.

These venues serve as cultural hubs downtown. After a $250 million renovation in 2023, CFG Bank Arena became one of the world’s top ten grossing arenas of its size—in just its first few months after reopening. These venues draw visitors and locals alike downtown to enjoy cultural experiences and grow the local economy. By supporting these cultural anchor institutions, the city is supporting a downtown that attracts world-class talent and encourages pride in downtown Baltimore.

1. Removal of Permitting Barriers for Physical Art and Placemaking in Arts Districts

2. Encourage Increased Frequency in Street Closings for Pedestrian Friendly Events

3. Assess the creation of an Arts, Entertainment, and Nightlife Director

4. Enact Legislation Encouraging LED Art Components to Building Exteriors

5. Beautify vacant buildings with art

6. Centralize special events in permitting in the Mayor’s office

7. Exploration of Parking Strategies Downtown to Increase Vibrancy

8. Explore Normalizing Variable Fees Citywide

DPOB is launching a power washing initiative to boost cleanliness in the DMA, focusing on addressing soiled sidewalks and alleyways. To kickstart this effort, DPOB will add power washing to their Clean & Green responsibilities within the DMA.

The city will work with Downtown partnership efforis launching a targeted effort to enhance street sweeping services in the downtown core, particularly focusing on the 106 blocks within the Downtown Management Authority (DMA). This initiative prioritizes key areas, including the 300 to 400 block of E Baltimore, the unit block of S. Light, and intersections including Lombard to Baltimore Street and Saratoga and Charles.

As part of the initiative to boost cleanliness in the DMA, the DPOB has initiated a plan to deploy larger and more easily maintained trash receptacles in high-traffic areas where current receptacles are overwhelmed by litter. Building on the success of a pilot program on Pratt Street, which received positive feedback from the community, DPOB aims to extend this effort across the downtown area.

DOT and DPOB are partnering to roll out new dog waste receptacles and cigarette waste receptacles across the DMA. Recognizing the importance of addressing litter and debris, this initiative aims to enhance cleanliness, mitigate health risks, and control pests effectively.

DPOB is launching a graffiti removal program that enables property owners within the DMA to apply for professional graffiti removal services. Additionally, the Mayor’s Office has convened a Task Force to assess enforcement options, prevent illicit graffiti, and enhance sanctioned street art.

With grant funding from MD DHCD, DPOB is working to bring lone-standing, public restrooms to the DMA to ensure that everyone downtown has access to restrooms.

The City began implementation of the Squeegee Collaborative’s Working Action Plan in January 2023. Since that time we have seen an 85% decrease in criminal incidents related to squeegeeing and have placed over 40 young people in jobs. The work of the Squeegee Collaborative is not just about addressing the activity of squeegeeing, but working on the root causes leading disconnected youth to be on the corners. As the work continues the focus will be on expanding efforts to connect panhandlers with employment opportunities, housing supports, and consistent mentorship to support and encourage their development. Through reviewing data weekly and thanks to intense and consistent collaboration among BPD, the Mayor’s Office of African American Male Engagement (MOAAME) and dozens of community stakeholders the work of the Squeegee Collaborative is creating a safer downtown and providing sustainable solutions for young people.

The presence of nuisance crime, such as drug dealing, loitering, and illegal sales of goods outside of the iconic Lexington Market deters visitors and residents from engaging with the area. Addressing this issue is critical for maintaining and enhancing the economic vitality of Lexington Market and its surrounding community.

To effectively address the problem, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes not only increasing police presence and implementing targeted enforcement strategies to deter criminal activity but investing in community-based initiatives such as job training, addiction support services, and social outreach programs can provide alternative pathways for individuals engaged in illegal activities.

This work must be conducted with sensitivity and respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals involved, and focus on community engagement, conflict resolution, and harm reduction, rather than punitive measures alone. By addressing nuisance crime near Lexington Market, Baltimore can create a safer, more vibrant environment that attracts visitors, encourages small business, and supports the long-term economic growth and prosperity of the area. This not only improves public safety but also promotes social inclusion and community well-being, ensuring that all residents and visitors feel welcome and valued in the Lexington Market neighborhood.

The DPOB, in collaboration with UMB and BPD, is establishing a Security Operations Center (SOC) that will aid in centralizing safety, hospitality, and law enforcement measures specifically for the downtown core. In fall 2024 DPOB will pilot a temporary SOC to test and learn the technology while planning and preparing for a permanent center. The establishment of a SOC will significantly enhance downtown Baltimore's security infrastructure. By improving communication and coordination between agencies and stakeholders, the SOC will ensure more effective responses to safety and security issues, as identified in an independent security assessment. The continued use of trained security guards and contracted law enforcement at key intersections will further deter criminal activity and enhance public safety.

Downtown Partnership is working with private stakeholders to reimagine alleyways. By targeting key locations and enhancing underutilized areas, they're working to provide more engaging and welcoming public spaces, focusing first and foremost on enhancing the pedestrian experience. In 2022, they created a color-coded system to assess alley conditions.

1. Enhanced Illegal Dumpster Enforcement

2. Study expanding auxiliary police to provide additional assistance with security, traffic, and parking enforcement.

3. For individuals suffering from substance use disorder and using drugs in public places, efforts to encourage people to accept treatment services.