Streetscape Initiative
CSDC successfully advocated for an $11 million project to improve the sidewalks and pedestrian amenities along Charles Street between Madison Street and North Avenue. The new streetscape design includes brick and concrete pavers, granite curbs, new trees and cobblestone tree wells, new benches, trash receptacles, and Victorian-style pedestrian lighting. This design will be compatible with the streetscape design that was incorporated by the City of Baltimore along Charles Street south of Centre Street.
The Charles Street Trolley
Since 2004, CSDC has undertaken a study to assess the potential for a fixed-rail streetcar in Baltimore’s historic Charles Street corridor. The 3.5 mile route would connect the city’s Inner Harbor and Central Business District to University Parkway in Charles Village.
In September 2008, the Charles Street Trolley Corporation (CSTC) was formed to oversee the planning process as it moves forward. Currently, CSTC is examining options for the finance, operations, and governance of the project, with the intention of developing the best possible transit system for the Charles Street Corridor.
Both organizations firmly believe that a trolley system would boost business and development activity, connect important cultural, historical, and educational destinations, and greatly enhance urban livability along Baltimore’s main street.
Parking Management Study
In 2002, CSDC completed a study that identified over 600 possible on-street parking spaces and locations for future garages. Based on this study, a series of actions were taken, including removal of some peak-hour parking restrictions on Maryland Avenue and the implementation of a multi-space meter program on Charles Street as a pilot for the city.
Greyhound Bus Station
In 2003, CSDC worked with others to prevent the relocation of the Greyhound Bus Station to Penn Station.
Neighborhood Partnership Program
Thanks to contributions from CSDC Members, large concrete flowerpots were installed on each corner of Charles Street from Centre Street to the intersection of North Avenue in 2003. The flowerpot program is part of the Maryland Neighborhood Partnership Program, which allows State tax credits for contributions received.
Stafford Apartments
Due to CSDC’s efforts, Johns Hopkins University and AIMCO converted this property in 2004 to housing for Peabody Institute students and other students in the JHU system.
Façade Improvement Grants
CSDC has successfully encouraged businesses on Charles Street to utilize the Façade Improvement Grant Program funds made available by Downtown Partnership.
Master List of Incentives
This incentives list, which is an inventory of government incentives made available for development and business in the corridor, is designed to make it easier for interested parties to maneuver through the system. You will find this list on the Development Incentives page of our website.
Charles Street Map & Guide Brochure
200,000 copies of this brochure were printed and distributed at local businesses and tourist attractions. The brochure contained a map of the area, showing existing businesses and cultural attractions.
