Perspectives from NAIOP-MD Members

Harborplace, the symbol of Baltimore City’s renaissance, needs help. What is your vision?

Brendan Harman
Vice President
MacKenzie Capital, LLC

“Harborplace partly made its name due to its free entertainment on the promenade, and a return to this concept would increase activity and drive traffic. An example of this in action is Bryant Park in New York City which is programmed 16 hours a day, 12 months a year. The new owners should consider converting one pavilion to a small to mid-size event space to accomplish this same goal. I envision something smaller than Pier 6 that has an increased frequency of events, possibly featuring a capacity of 1000 people that can be used weekly if not multiple times a week.”

Abby Glassberg
Principal
NAI KLNB

“When I think about Baltimore, ‘eds and meds’ immediately comes up. I envision the presence of a major university absorbing this site, such as Hopkins, University of Baltimore or Maryland establishing a satellite campus. This would also engage young people and inject new energy that would support existing retail and restaurants. A concept that created first-floor retail opening out onto Pratt Street is especially compelling in keeping with the iconic use of the buildings. I am not in favor of a high-rise residential tower because it would block stunning views of the harbor and would not serve the community.”

Christopher H. Burnham
Vice President Investments
Marcus & Millichap/IPA
Mid-Atlantic Investment Sales

“As a Baltimore resident that also works downtown, I think about the future of Harborplace often and believe the revival or ultimate redevelopment of this site is key to moving the City to the next level. This is an extremely complicated issue and much of what has been discussed and suggested is easier said than done. But in an ideal world, I would see Harborplace best suited for a mixed-use development similar to the recently built Wharf in Washington, DC. Attracting a mix of residential, retail, hospitality and office uses to this section of the City will help to continue the momentum that has been occurring in the Commercial Business District (CBD) and elsewhere in Baltimore.”