On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) hosted the State of Downtown breakfast at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, in Downtown Baltimore, serving as the perfect backdrop for the event.
The annual networking and keynote speaker presentation is now a tradition that has become a key indicator of the city’s economic health and vitality. The event’s highlight was the State of Downtown Report, a particularly significant benchmark data for Baltimore, including employment statistics, residential analysis, and hotel occupancy rates year-on-year.
The breakfast, a fixture in the city’s calendar, was attended by a “who’s who” of Baltimore’s business and civic leaders. It was an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s achievements and to chart a course for the future of Baltimore’s downtown core.
This year’s event featured speakers that included Mayor Brandon Scott, fresh off his recent State of the City address presented on March 25, 2024. Mayor Scott rose to national prominence immediately after his SOTC address following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
The keynote address was presented by Tracy Hadden Loh, a Fellow with the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Center for Transformative Placemaking at Brookings Metro.
Other speakers included David Bramble, Managing Partner of MCB Real Estate; DPOB President Shelonda Stokes; Senate President Bill Ferguson; Baltimore City Council President Nick Mosby; and DPOB Board Chair, Carim Khouzami.
Keynote Address: A Vision for Placemaking
The keynote by Tracy Hadden Loh integrated her interests in commercial real estate, infrastructure, racial justice, and governance, providing a compelling vision for the future of urban centers.
Leadership Voices
David Bramble, a prominent figure in Baltimore’s real estate and development scene, highlighted the city’s potential and the opportunities that lie ahead. His speech underscored the importance of seizing the moment to ensure a prosperous future for Baltimore.
Senate President Bill Ferguson highlighted legislative support for downtown development initiatives.
Council President Nick Mosby addressed the importance of governance in fostering a conducive environment for business and community development.
DPOB Board Chair Carim Khouzami underscored the significance of strategic partnerships in driving economic success.
DPOB President Shelonda Stokes celebrated the downtown’s renaissance and the collective efforts that have fueled its transformation.
A Comprehensive Overview
The State of Downtown Report is a vital tool for understanding the economic and social trends shaping Baltimore. The 2024 report revealed a downtown that is increasingly vibrant and resilient, with a growing population and a diversifying economy. The conversion of office spaces into residential units, a trend seen nationwide, has brought new life to the city’s center.
Employment and Economic Resilience
The report highlighted a downtown that is becoming a hub of employment, with the relocation of state employees to the area contributing to a significant increase in jobs. This move is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Maryland’s General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, and city officials.
Hospitality and Tourism Flourishing
The hospitality sector has also seen remarkable growth with hotel occupancy rates climbing steadily—a sign of a resurgence in tourism and business travel. Landmarks like the CFG Bank Arena and the new Lexington Market have become hubs of activity, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.
A Pledge for Progress
The State of Downtown Baltimore breakfast is more than an event; it is a pledge by the DPOB and the city’s leadership to continue the work of transforming downtown into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically thriving district. It is a time to come together, to share successes, to learn from challenges, and to commit to the collective vision of a better Baltimore.
As attendees left the breakfast, there was a sense of shared purpose and optimism. The data presented in the report, along with the inspiring words from the city’s leaders, provided a clear vision of the path forward—a path that promises prosperity and renewal for Baltimore’s heart.
In conclusion, the annual State of Downtown Baltimore breakfast stands as a testament to the city’s enduring spirit and its unwavering commitment to progress. With a foundation of solid data and a community united in purpose, Baltimore is poised to continue its journey toward a bright and promising future.