The Metropolitan Council’s COG QUARTERLY

Winter / 2018

pg14 pg10 pg 20 BALTIMORE BOUND MAPPIN’ IT B’MORE INVOLVED

Tourism is an important economic One of the best tools BMC has B’More Involved, the federally required generator, supporting jobs, for analyzing regional economic public involvement arm of the BRTB, businesses and bringing in tax development is the Building Permit promotes civic engagement in our revenue, while it also enhances Database System. The database region’s transportation, planning, quality of life for residents. The shows both new construction environmental justice and equity. Baltimore region is working together and alterations that are valued This important information is a great to better coordinate tourism services, at more than $50,000. With so way for you to learn more, stay up-to- including transportation challenges, much information, it is important date on important events, news, and, to create a better experience for to visualize the data in a way that of course, let you know how you can visitors and thereby boost the local planners and the public can easily B’More Involved! economy. understand. 1 Baltimore Metropolitan Council Table of Contents Letter from the LETTER FROM THE CLICK TO YOUR HEART’S CONTENT! EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 01 COG Quarterly is an interactive digital magazine of BMC. Executive Director IN THE NEWS Blue text and contains hyperlinks to more information, so click away! Transportation 02 Bike/Ped 04 WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Photos 05 Please email staff at [email protected] Planning will be necessary to transport MAPPIN’ IT 08 with any questions, comments or story ideas. For more information about BMC, visit www.baltometro.org. our region’s thriving tourism industry ASK AN EXPERT 10

CONNECT WITH US! LEADING LOCALLY 12 We’re very active social media and want you to be a part of the hen you look at the national news, Board of Directors fun. Follow us! COVER STORY 14 Wit’s easy to dismiss Baltimore as a chair, who talks about city with great challenges and struggles. his local and regional But outsiders are discovering what priorities in “Leading PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 20 so many of us have known about this Locally” (Page 12). Schuh region for years: Baltimore is a dynamic highlights the work of his FROM THE VAULT 22 destination and it’s only getting better. county’s Transportation Commission in its effort you’ll notice some stylistic updates to Forbes started the momentum when to better connect local transportation the publication. We recently unveiled a it dubbed us No. 14 on “America’s assets, as well as his leadership in revamp of our logo, iconography, fonts Coolest Cities to Live” in 2012. Then combating the opioid crisis in our and color pallet, aimed at unifying and Zagat crowned Baltimore City No. 2 on Board of Directors region. modernizing our brand. Our facade “The Top 17 Food Cities of 2015.” So may be new and improved, but at our it’s no surprise (but still quite exciting) In addition, Augie Chiasera, president heart, we remain an anchor for regional that we made the New York Time’s “52 for M&T Bank’s Greater Baltimore STEVEN R. SCHUH ALLAN H. KITTLEMAN collaboration. Places to go in 2018,” a list of global and Chesapeake regions, shares his Anne Arundel County Executive Howard County Executive destinations. perspectives on how corporate citizens As always, thank you for reading COG (BMC Chair) like M&T Bank contribute to Baltimore’s Quarterly, and please stomp on over to Our Winter 2018 cover story, “Baltimore economy and shape its future our blog, too. JAMES J. MORAN Bound,” highlights regional tourism CATHERINE E. PUGH through investment and cross-sector Queen Anne’s County Board of and its intersection with transportation Baltimore City Mayor collaboration. Check out the Q&A (Page Sincerely, Commissioners (Page 14). The Baltimore region has (BMC Vice-Chair) 10). something for everyone – whether WILLIAM C. FERGUSON you’re a foodie or beer connoisseur, On Monday, February 12, BMC launched KEVIN KAMENETZ State Senator, D-46 a sports fanatic or patron of the arts, it’s new blog. Stomping Grounds - a Mike Kelly Baltimore County Executive nature enthusiast or leisure lover. The nod to our big regional backyard - BMC Executive Director tourism industry is a key component of will publish biweekly posts, featuring STEPHEN W. LAFFERTY our economy, and it’s an emerging factor novel musings on transportation, data, STEPHEN WANTZ Maryland State Delegate, D-42A in how we approach transportation economics, and all things that make Carroll County Board of Commissioners planning for the future. Baltimore great (Page 22).

J. THOMAS SADOWSKI We also spotlight Anne Arundel County Finally, as you virtually thumb through BARRY GLASSMAN Executive Steven Schuh, BMC’s 2018 the Winter 2018 issue of COG Quarterly, University System of Maryland Harford County Executive

COG Quarterly 1 IN THE NEWS Maximize 2045 2019 FY UPWP BRTB adopts highway safety targets for next long-range BRTB to seek public comments on draft Fiscal Year 2019 transportation plan, Maximize2045 budget and work plan

MC staff members continue to In 2016, the fatality The metropolitan planning process work with the Baltimore Regional rate/100 million VMT shall provide for consideration B and implementation of projects, Transportation Board (BRTB) and its for the region was 0.83, strategies, and services that will advisory groups to develop the next while the national fatality address the following factors: regional transportation plan. The BRTB rate/100 million VMT expects to adopt this plan, known was 1.18, according to cover the categories of major capital • Increase the safety of the as Maximize2045: A Performance-Based the National Highway Traffic Safety projects, system preservation, and transportation system for Transportation Plan, by July 2019. Administration (NHTSA). system operations. The financial plan motorized and non-motorized also will show total estimated costs for users; Increase the security of Regional Highway Safety Targets Next Steps the system preservation and system the transportation system for The most recent step in this process Over the next several months, BMC staff operations categories. motorized and non-motorized users; was the adoption of highway safety will work with the BRTB and its advisory Examples of major capital projects targets, which BRTB completed in groups to develop the following critical are new or widened roads to expand • Protect and enhance the January 2018. These targets cover the elements of the long-range plan: capacity, major roadway or bridge environment, promote energy five federally mandated highway safety • Population and employment rehabilitations, and new or expanded conservation, improve the quality performance measures: forecasts for the 2024-2045 transit service. of life, and promote consistency between transportation period (in coordination with the System preservation covers such • Number of fatalities; improvements and State and local Cooperative Forecast Group); activities as roadway repaving, bridge planned growth and economic • Number of serious injuries; • Criteria for evaluating candidate repairs, transit vehicle replacement, he Baltimore Regional development patterns; • Rate of fatalities per 100 million projects (in coordination with the non-routine rehabilitations of transit (MPO), the BRTB must address Transportation Board (BRTB) will vehicle miles traveled (VMT); Technical Committee); and facilities, and maintenance of roadway T many transportation planning topics • Increase accessibility and mobility lighting and signage. soon welcome comments on its draft such as: freight movement and of people and freight; Enhance the • A financial plan (in coordination • Rate of serious injuries per 100 Budget & Work Program for Fiscal Year traffic, bicycle and pedestrian safety. integration and connectivity of the with the Maryland Department System operations covers routine million VMT; and 2019. Beyond these requirements, the BRTB transportation system, across and of Transportation and local transit maintenance activities as well • Number of non-motorized allocates funding to address critical between modes, for people and jurisdictions). as the salaries and wages of personnel The BRTB adopted a list of regional (pedestrian and bicycle) fatalities transportation issues specific to the freight; who maintain and operate transit and transportation planning activities last and serious injuries. Baltimore, such as improving the Financial Plan highway systems and vehicles. year and is updating the budget for the • Promote efficient system coordination between the Maryland The table below shows the highway second fiscal year. This plan includes management and operation; The financial plan will include Transit Administration and the Locally safety targets for the Baltimore region Call for Candidate Projects funding for planning activities from July Emphasize the preservation of the forecasts of the revenues expected to Operated Transit Systems. for the next three years: be available for highway and transit Once these elements - population 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. existing transportation system; programs and projects in the region for and employment forecasts, project BRTB member jurisdictions and state • Promote efficient system Baltimore Region Highway Safety The BRTB’s Budget and Work Program the 2024-2045 period. These revenues evaluation criteria, and financial plan agencies propose program ideas and management and operation; Performance Targets is known as the Unified Planning Work - are in place, BMC staff will issue a release a draft for 30 day public review Emphasize the preservation of the Program (UPWP) for Transportation call to local jurisdictions and state in February. After weighing public existing transportation system; PERFORMANCE MEASURES 2018 2019 2020 Planning. This federally required agencies to submit candidate major comments, the BRTB officially adopts Number of Fatalities 176 171 166 document details projects, studies • Support the economic vitality capital projects. Staff expects this call this work program during its April and other activities to be completed by of the metropolitan area, Number of Serious Injuries 1,176 1,153 1,130 for projects to take place in the summer meeting allowing for two months for BRTB members and BMC staff. especially by enabling global Fatality Rate/100 million VMT 0.68 0.66 0.64 of 2018. The evaluation of candidate federal approval before the beginning competitiveness, productivity, projects will take place in the fall of of the fiscal year on July 1. Serious Injury Rate/100 million VMT 4.18 4.05 3.92 The UPWP includes both local and efficiency; and enhance 2018. Number of non-motorized Fatalities 202 195 188 and region-wide activities. As the travel and tourism. Metropolitan Planning Organization

2 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 3 BMC Activities

Bike / Ped Thousands of Baltimore region cyclists expected to celebrate Bike to Work Day on May 18

very spring since 1997, BMC and Several hosted pit stops, places where Find out how to be Eits member jurisdictions have riders could grab a bite, have a drink, part of the region’s sponsored Bike to Work Day in the and talk with other cyclists of their love biggest bicycling Baltimore region. Bike to Work Day, of two-wheeling. Many organizations event by visiting observed nationally on the third Friday encouraged employees to bike by Bike2WorkCentralMD.com. Registration in May, is a time to celebrate the bicycle offering incentives such as free meals, opens in mid-March. as a serious and responsible means of relaxed dress codes, and prize contests. Each fall, BMC launches an internal campaign to transportation. Many others gave their support by Remember that riding a bicycle is just provide monetary donations to the United Way of contributing cash, services, or prizes. one alternative to driving alone. You Central Maryland, which supports families and Bicycle commuting can help reduce can also carpool, take transit, telework, nonprofits in our region. Our staff raised $18,965, both traffic congestion and air pollution. which will go toward the organization’s 2018 It’s also a great way to burn that morning programming! latte. (Above) BMC staff provides United Way of Central Baltimore’s Bike to Work celebration Maryland President and CEO Franklyn Baker (center, began very modestly with a handful left) with our donation check. Staff includes (left to of riders gathering at the Inner right) Todd Lang, Aryn Dagirmanjian, Victor Henry, Harbor, sharing coffee, pastries, Kelly Nolan (of the United Way), Robert Berger, Charles and experiences. From that humble Baber, Dan Pontious, Mara Kaminowitz, Bala Akundi, beginning, the event has grown steadily Crystal McDermott, Zach Kaufman, Regina Aris, Russ each year. So much so, that last year’s This year’s effort, which we hope will or even walk. In addition to reducing Ulrich, Blake Fisher, Tamiko Knight, Sara Tomlinson, 20th anniversary saw approximately be the biggest and best yet, is set for carbon emissions, these alternative Laura Van Wert, Monica Haines Benkhedda, Jonathan 2,300 cyclists - a new record - meeting Friday, May 18. You can help celebrate transportation options can save money. Mysko, and Brian Shepter. at dozens of locations throughout biking as a clean, healthy, and fun way Let us help you discover a new way to greater Baltimore. of getting around, by leaving your car get to work. Visit Cleancommute.com (Left) Regina Aris, BMC assistant transportation parked and joining the hundreds who to learn about the various commuter director and chair of the United Way of Central Bike to Work Day 2017 also featured will be cycling on our region’s roadways. options in the Baltimore region. Maryland’s Community Partnership Board of Baltimore the participation of many of the region’s County, signs BMC’s donation check. Photos by BMC employers, both large and small. staff.

4 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 5 BMC Activities

(Above) The BMC Board of Directors met on Friday, January 26, in Annapolis.

The Maryland General Assembly began its session on Wednesday, January BMC Executive Director Mike Kelly runs into Sen. Bill Ferguson, a BMC 11, in Annapolis. board member, on Wednesday, January 11, in Annapolis.

(Top) On Thursday, December 21, BMC’s congestion management experts Victor Henry and Ed Stylc spoke to WYPR 88.1 FM’s Sheilah Kast about traffic in the Baltimore region and the University of Maryland CATT (Above) Mike Kelly welcomes people (left) to BMC’s reception celebrating 25 Lab technology we use to plan. (Above) BMC’s Russ Ulrich (center) speaks with Del. Eric Ebersole, of years as an organization at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Baltimore County, and Tabitha Ernst, of Anne Arundel County, at the Transportation Association of Maryland’s Winter Conference on Thursday, December 7, in Cambridge, MD. legislative reception on Tuesday, January 16. (Right) BMC’s Debbie Groat speaks about the Baltimore Regional Cooperative Purchasing Committee (BRCPC) during the MACo Winter Conference. All photos by BMC staff. All photos by BMC staff. 6 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 7 MAPPIN’ IT Geographic Information Systems Visual representations make it easier for planners, public to digest regional building permit database

ne of the best tools BMC has for analyzing regional Showing them as dots would make the data difficult to Oeconomic development is the Building Permit Database interpret, but hexagons provide a uniform unit of measure System. that makes it easy to see concentrations of new building The large database of building permits shows both new permits across the region. construction and alterations that are valued at more than The orange hexagons show permits issued within the $50,000. With so much information, it is important to PFA and the purple show the permits outside the PFA. visualize the data in a way that planners and the public can This method highlights where development is being easily understand. concentrated in preferred areas and where it isn’t. This map shows residential and commercial building New development in downtown areas is readily visible in permits for new construction that are located inside and the map along with areas outside the PFA where there outside the Priority Funding Area (PFA). PFAs are existing is growth in residential and commercial development communities designated by local government where between the PFA areas. Examining the regional patterns growth and economic development are encouraged. More on this map may help BMC understand current and future than 94,000 permits have been aggregated into hexagons. economic development and housing patterns.

8 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 9 Ask an expert showcases an innovator in the Baltimore . You serve as the vice-chair of the .You sit on the board for the Baltimore informative and was particularly helpful region who is at the pulse of his or her industry through a 4Baltimore Development Corporation. 5Symphony Orchestra and Center Stage. in the context of recent regional trips What do you see as the keys to How do arts and cultural contribute to I attended to Pittsburgh and Detroit. Q&A. We sat down with Augie Chiasera, president of the attracting and retaining businesses in our regional competitiveness? Is this While there are some specific projects Greater Baltimore and Chesapeake regions at M&T Bank Baltimore? part of structuring Baltimore’s “new and efforts that are intriguing in each and vice-chair of the Board of Directors for the Baltimore narrative?” city, what left the biggest impression Successful economic development on me in Cleveland is the level of Development Corporation, to learn more about the public- is the result of coordination and The arts are a significant driver of the community cohesion around key private partnerships driving our local economy, and how cooperation across the government, quality of life we enjoy in Baltimore and drivers of regional success. supporting the arts can boost a region’s economic value. business, education and other not- are a cornerstone of what it means to be for-profit sectors. Quality of life and a a world-class city. I also might mention I learn a lot from seeing how other strong workforce are certainly keys to that both organizations, through their cities approach their particular issues ASK AN EXPERT attracting companies while retention leadership and world-class products, and then get on with the hard work of is often a function of continually bring the spirit of Baltimore to an coordinating with other community/ Augie Chiasera improving transportation infrastructure, international audience through their business leaders to tailor a regional education and public safety. For greater respective international performances solution that works for them. Baltimore, thinking and acting like a and collaborations. They are not alone M&T Bank, Regional President region is crucial to harness resources in this type of work. .Is there anything else that we Photo courtesy of M&T Bank. and develop solutions that are beneficial 7 haven’t asked that you would like to all parties. Our cultural institutions are absolutely to mention? . You’ve been with M&T Bank for mind, there is no better demonstration part of the fabric of who M&T Bank is part of the Baltimore narrative – but this 1nearly 25 years. Tell us about your of our commitment to this community as a corporate citizen. To that end, we I think the Baltimore region is at a has been the case for a while so I would I had the chance to learn a lot about career and how your experience with than investing in a new regional often say that when our communities crossroads. We have an extraordinary not consider it a part of something new. the critical role regional organizations the company has shaped the way you headquarters for our 600 employees in succeed, we all succeed. array of assets and talent - yet we I think that we can do a better job of like BMC can play in identifying approach your role as president for the the core of downtown Baltimore. have been unable to leverage these to recognizing the important role arts and infrastructure problems and proposing Greater Baltimore and Chesapeake Baltimore is blessed with a diversity of maximum effect and to achieve our cultural organizations play in the overall workable solutions to move our regions. As a major business, employer foundations, private companies, anchor very substantial potential. success of our region and talk more communities forward. and philanthropist in the Baltimore institutions and public organizations. publically about it. I have a somewhat unique perspective, region, One Light Street reflects our At times, we have been described as Now is the time to come together in a We often focus on addressing problems having not lived here my entire life. commitment to the downtown core of fragmented in our approach to solving new way to transform the Baltimore . You joined the delegation on BMC’s with little thought to also addressing When I relocated to Baltimore 15 years our community. It is my hope that our problems and we end up under- region, and create a U.S. market with 6inaugural Chesapeake Connect trip the issue within a broader strategy. ago, I was able to see and appreciate efforts will spur additional investment delivering on our promise. We have the highest quality of life for families to to Cleveland in November. What was My goal is to concentrate more on all that is special and unique about the in the city and region. Locating our the “raw material” in this community live and thrive, for people to visit, and for your impression of the trip? Were there solutions and make a difference for region - and I am just as enthusiastic headquarters in the downtown to create a metropolitan region that businesses to succeed. particular projects or programs that the groups with which I am fortunate today as I was then. As for my career at business district is a very tangible way is one of the best places to address you felt might benefit the Baltimore to work. We could be a national model M&T Bank, I have worked in a number of expressing our belief in Baltimore and solve urban problems. It is our We have to move from being good at region? of a city that collaborates and meets of senior roles within the company as a great place to work, live, learn and challenge as leaders to move beyond recognizing and identifying problems challenges proactively, and strengthen which has allowed me to understand invest. this fragmentation to affect real change to being able to develop innovative The trip to Cleveland was very communities by creating opportunities and appreciate all the ways that M&T in our communities. I know we can do solutions. for everyone. can make a positive difference for our . Your personal involvement in this. clients, communities and employees. 3public service organizations is extensive. Please tell us about the As it relates to M&T Bank, I am most . In September, it was announced importance of regional partnerships, proud of the work our employees do 2that M&T Bank is moving to One specifically between public, nonprofit every day to improve the lives of others Light Street, a new building under and private organizations. Are there in this community. Aside from the more construction in the . How particular examples of which you than $4 million we donate to charitable does that move support your business are most proud, either personally or causes throughout Maryland, our 2,000- and our local economy? professionally? plus local employees participate on more than 250 local community boards At our core, we are a community-focused As bankers, we often find ourselves and donate thousands of hours of their bank. Just as our relationship with the in the middle of bringing disparate time in volunteer service to others in is about more than groups together for the betterment of our community. That is something of our name on M&T Bank Stadium, our new our community. Our former chairman, which I am very proud. Augie Chiasera (right) and Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh (center) joined more than 40 of the Baltimore region’s leaders for BMC’s inaugural Chesapeake Connect to One Light Street headquarters is about Bob Wilmers, made it a point to make Cleveland, Ohio, in November. Photo courtesy of Gregory Wilson Photo. much more than a new building. In my sure giving back to our communities is

10 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 11 LEADING LOCALLY In addition to addressing the county’s infrastructure, Schuh said that Anne Arundel’s GDP will aim to preserve rural BMC Board of Directors lands and prevent overdevelopment. Schuh also touted Governor Larry Hogan’s efforts to increase Highway Anne Arundel County Executive Steven Schuh to serve as User Revenue funds for counties. He indicated that the county will use this 2018 Board of Directors chair revenue to step up road construction and improve the system. part of the county, “Roads were deteriorating,” Schuh said. and is on “It’s going to be a big undertaking, but Schuh worked with Baltimore City officials to address rodent infestations in northern Anne Arundel County a schedule to improve its infrastructure, additional highway user dollars will help and its city neighbor. Together Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City have conducted more than 11,000 Schuh said. the county keep its roads in operation inspections of businesses and homes, while providing more than 10,000 rat-proof trash cans in Curtis Bay, for residents and businesses.” Brooklyn and Brooklyn Park through the state’s BRNI grant program. Photo courtesy of Anne Arundel County. “We’re getting all of the right people in the room together and bringing order to Michael Kelly, BMC executive director, chaos,” Schuh said. said that he looks forward to working population by working closely with closely with Schuh throughout the year. residents and coordinating with our Moving forward, Schuh said that he partners in City government.” Until three years ago, wants to continue to work to ensure that “County Executive Schuh is a leader Anne Arundel County the county has a transportation network whose years of experience representing But Schuh’s main priority for regional that can get low-income residents to Anne Arundel County will be an coordination is addressing the opioid residents were largely job centers and commuters to work in invaluable resource to our organization,” epidemic, he said. unconcerned with Baltimore and Washington, D.C., as well Kelly said. “We look forward to working (Center) Anne Arundel County Executive Steven Schuh will serve as the 2018 BMC Board of Directors chair. as connect the network of trails that run with him to advance the common “Until three years ago, Anne Arundel opioids. Today, it’s an Photo courtesy of Anne Arundel County. through the County from Baltimore to priorities of the Baltimore region.” County residents were largely epidemic. Annapolis. unconcerned with opioids, Schuh said. While leaders in the Baltimore region “Today, it’s an epidemic.” — Schuh said. “We want to encourage residents and already work well together, there is visitors to get outside and enjoy our great potential for further cooperation Last year, Anne Arundel County had n Friday, January 26, the Baltimore from each of our member jurisdictions trails,” Schuh said. “It’s a priority for us, and coordination, Schuh said. 150 fatal and a thousand non-fatal OMetropolitan Council (BMC) hosted to enhance our region’s quality of life but we know it is going to take time to overdoses. The rise in overdoses has a meeting of its Board of Directors at and economic vitality.” link all of these assets into one network.” “We value our relationship with our been linked to potent synthetic drugs stresses outreach, education the House Office Build in Annapolis, neighboring jurisdictions,” Schuh said. like Fentanyl being mixed with heroin, and treatment. The county’s Safe and unanimously voted to install Anne In 2017, Schuh convened a county-wide To stay on schedule, the county is “We often talk about how we’re one said Schuh. Stations program is making progress Arundel County Executive Steven Schuh as transportation commission to bring in the midst of updating its General huge system. We’re all tied together.” in addressing the demand side of its chair for calendar year 2018. together stakeholders to create a more Development Plan, a task that Schuh “We’re battling sophisticated the equation. The program allows integrated network. The commission said should be done more frequently For example, Schuh worked with international networks of criminals individuals in need of assistance to walk As Schuh begins his fourth year as includes various county departments, to ensure the plan remains relevant. Baltimore City officials to address who are manufacturing and distributing into any county fire or police station county executive, he said he looks from aging to economic development Legislation passed last year will reduce rodent infestations in northern Anne these lethal drug cocktails,” Schuh said. 24 hours a day, seven days a week for forward to continuing both county and and workforce investment to social the time between creation of GDPs by Arundel County and its city neighbor. access to opioid treatment resources. regional initiatives – from improving services. The commission is charged two years. Moving forward, the process Together Anne Arundel County and In Anne Arundel County, the narcotics With over 500 people served since transportation planning to tackling the with considering all of the transportation to develop a GDP will take the county Baltimore City have conducted more unit is prioritizing interception and April of 2017, the number of individuals opioid epidemic. assets that operate in and around three years, while updates to small area than 11,000 inspections of businesses prosecution of the dealers and their assisted is beginning to outpace the the county, including the Regional plans will take five, for a total of eight and homes, while providing more than networks. number of overdoses on a monthly “Our residents’ lives do not stop at our Transportation Agency (RTA), Maryland years. Schuh said that this will keep 10,000 rat-proof trash cans in Curtis Bay, basis, explained Schuh. county or city lines. We must remember Transit Administration (MTA), MARC elements of the plan from going 10-15 Brooklyn and Brooklyn Park through the “We’re doing a lot to go after those that we are all in this together, as our Train, Amtrak, Tipton Airport, Baltimore- years without action. state’s Baltimore Regional Neighborhood responsible for this crisis. We’ve “We don’t want to put people struggling strengths - and weaknesses - can be Washington International Thurgood Marshall Initiative (BRNI) grant program. studied and replicated every model out with addiction in jail, said Schuh.” We felt across the region,” Schuh said. “As Airport, and even the . “It’s become apparent that 10 years is there,” Schuh said. want them to get the treatment that the incoming chair of the BMC Board of Together, the county has strengthened too long to wait between GDPs,” Schuh “Infestation is a challenge that knows they need to recover.” Directors, I look forward to working with its relationship with , cut said. “This will put the county on a much no borders,” Schuh said. We’re seeing For those battling addiction, Schuh my elected and appointed colleagues underutilized bus lines in the western more consistent development path.” a dramatic reduction in the rodent

12 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 13 COVER STORY Baltimore Bound It’s no coincidence that central MD is on every hot travel list. Our region’s tourism industry works in concert to entice visitors to stay and play longer.

n Saturday, May 19, more than “When you have such an abundance Maryland Office of Tourism. “Our goal is to O140,000 people will pack into of things to see, do and enjoy, visitors elevate Maryland as a great destination Pimlico Race Course for the 143rd want to come back for more.” and increase visitor spending in the Stakes, the second leg of the state.” American Triple Crown. Tourism is an important economic generator, supporting jobs, businesses Maryland tourism brings in $17.3 billion While the six-figure crowd at the and bringing in tax revenue, while it also annually. The tourism industry includes prestigious horse race is impressive, enhances quality of life for residents. 146,000 full-time employees, making more than three times that figure The Baltimore region is working together it the tenth largest private employer in Annually, 25.9 million visitors come to the Baltimore region. Photo by BMC staff are expected to attend Light City’s to better coordinate tourism services, the state. In 2016, 42 million visitors installations during three weekends in including transportation challenges, to explored Maryland. April, and more than 2 million Orioles create a better experience for visitors baseball fans will watch games at and thereby boost the local economy. “The compact size of our state makes activities are culinary. Agrotourism is Camden Yards throughout the 2018 it easy for visitors,” Fitzsimmons said. By cross-promoting activities and taking off in the Baltimore region, with they’ll stay to enjoy our other craft season. “You don’t have to go very far to find destinations around the region, about a dozen micro-breweries popping breweries and attractions.” great cultural attractions.” jurisdictions are able to keep visitors up. Last year, Diageo announced it is What do these three very different The compact size engaged for a more sustained period opening a Guinness Open Gate Brewery In 2016, Baltimore County brought in events have in common? Baltimore. Visitors may travel to the Baltimore of time. Weekend youth baseball or and Barrel House in Baltimore County, $1.3 billion from tourism. Approximately of our state makes region for one main activity or lacrosse tournaments become long modeled on its legendary Dublin 13,000 people, or 5.7 percent of the The Baltimore region is thriving with it easy for visitors. destination, such as the National weekends for the family, where a father brewery. county’s total employment, are tied an abundance of activities, from Aquarium or Darlington Apple Festival, and son can play game after game, directly to the industry. Restaurant Weeks to Wine in the Woods; You don’t have to go but their visits are rarely singular in while a mother and other siblings can “Guinness is going to launch beer the U.S. boat shows in Annapolis; the very far to find great purpose. Visitors often eat a meal or go hiking, biking or kayaking. tourism as a major attraction and This month, Harford County will Maryland State Barbecue Bash to hiking two, go shopping, catch a concert, stay economic generator, not just for celebrate FeBREWary with its four and biking at Gunpowder Falls. cultural attractions. overnight in a hotel. Many times, these “It’s not just a visitor experience. It’s Baltimore County, but for the region and breweries and hop farm, said Greg activities are spread out between cities, a resident experience,” Fitzsimmons state,” Cohen said. Pizzuto, executive director of Visit Even Beyonce chooses M&T Bank — Fitzsimmons said. towns and counties in the region. said. “We’re creating and promoting a Harford, the county’s 2-year-old tourism Stadium to perform to an enthusiastic wonderful place to live.” Guinness projects that its only U.S. department. and sold-out crowd. These events draw “Out-of-town visitors don’t differentiate brewery will attract 250,000 visitors in 25.9 million visitors to the Baltimore between counties in greater Baltimore,” Emerging Activities annually. “The micro-brewery industry in our area region annually. Quality of Life Fitzsimmons said. “So regional is doing very well,” Pizzuto said. “It’s cooperation is the key to our success. he Baltimore region is rich with “The opening of the new brewery will something that we’re very proud of and “Hospitality, history, spirits and sports ore visitors mean more revenue When we work together, we have a Tart, music, theater, sports (both have a significant economic impact. It’s will continue to promote.” really are our strengths when it comes “Mand more jobs,” said Liz stronger presence.” professional matches and youth going to add a whole new dimension to to tourism,” said Fronda Cohen, Baltimore Fitzsimmons, managing director for tournaments), and history. But some area tourism,” Cohen said. “Guinness is County Office of Communications. Tourism, Film, and the Arts with the of the most exciting emerging tourist going to bring people in, and we hope

14 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 15 We need good roads – roads that are safe. And while every state has its pockets of congestion, we’re certainly improving access to our roadways. That continued improvement will bode well for tourism in the long run. — Averella said.

“There are so many moving parts Baltimore is key because people come For Al Hutchinson, president and CEO of when you look at tourism, whether it’s from all around the Mid-Atlantic to take Visit Baltimore, the Baltimore-Washington the transportation component or the cruises out of Baltimore.” International Thurgood Marshall Airport and destination component,” said Ragina the I-95 corridor are the region’s biggest Cooper Averella, public and government If visitors are leaving from the Port of transportation assets when it comes Boordy Vineyards in Baltimore County. Photo courtesy of Baltimore County affairs manager for AAA Mid-Atlantic. Baltimore to cruise to the Caribbean, to attracting visitors, both domestic “We need good roads – roads that they’re often arriving a day or two early and international. The affordability and are safe. And while every state has its or staying a day or two after they dock. accessibility of Baltimore’s location on pockets of congestion, we’re certainly Then visitors are more likely to spend the East Coast, and the airlines at BWI improving access to our roadways. more time and money in the region. - Southwest Airlines, Air Canada and In 2016, the most recent year that data agrotourism. The Independent Brewing for. Every person who comes is seeking That continued improvement will bode British Airways - make it a desirable was available, Harford County brought Company in Bel Air promotes a yoga something different.” well for tourism in the long run.” “Our state has a lot to offer, which is location for people to stay longer and in 1.8 million visitors, who spent $376 class called “Bends and Beers,” where why we do so well attracting tourists spend more. million. That’s $1 million a day in tourism students can exercise and sip on a cold So Pizzuto is working with the tourism Seventy-four percent of day trippers to from all across the region, state and activity. Likewise, tourism in the county brew, Pizzuto said. personnel in surrounding jurisdictions Baltimore and 63 percent of overnight country,” Averella said. “Transportation “That’s a big selling point for us,” employs 7,000 workers. to identify those key hobbies, activities visitors arrive in their own vehicle. infrastructure is critical to keeping Hutchinson said. “We’re trying to bring people in, to or destinations that might attract these tourism dollars in Maryland.” “Tourism certainly supports many jobs spend a couple of nights in our hotels, visitors to Harford County to see if they Compare those numbers to 18 percent Visit Baltimore focuses on promoting and it’s continuing to expand,” Pizzuto spend some money in the county, can be packaged with other nearby of overnight visitors and 14 percent the story of each neighborhood, so said. and then hopefully go home and tell activities. For example, Harford and of day trip visitors who arrive by air; 9 others what a great time they had,” Cecil counties are working together on percent and 10 percent, respectively, Harford County’s communities, Pizzuto said. “It really comes down to a chocolate tour, as well as hiking and who take a bus; and 7 percent and 5 too, have embraced its booming understanding what people are looking biking destinations. percent, respectively, who come into the region by train. In short, tourism “Instead of competition, we try to pitch in the Baltimore region is easiest for the region as a whole,” Pizzuto said. those who own vehicles, because they can get to their destination relatively Transportation and Tourism quickly and move on to the next point of interest. n May 2016, the U.S. Department of ITransportation announced a new factor Approximately two-thirds of visitors for federally required Metropolitan who stayed overnight in Baltimore City Planning Organizations (MPOs) to arrived using their own vehicle. That consider in the planning process - statistic is particularly important to enhancing travel and tourism. Since Averella, who notes that not only is the then, Baltimore Metropolitan Council Baltimore region a popular destination (BMC) staff, on behalf of the Baltimore to visit, but it’s one that can help people Regional Transportation Board (BRTB), get to other destinations easily, whether has reached out to the local and state by boat or by air. Falling Branch Brewery in Harford County. Photo courtesy of Harford County tourism industry to address the effect A farm tour in Carroll County. Photo by BMC staff of transportation infrastructure on “Baltimore, in particular, is a unique attracting visitors. destination,” Averella said. “The Port of

16 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 17 Steeplechase in Baltimore County. Photo courtesy of Baltimore County

Photos by BMC staff. that once in Baltimore City, visitors the stories of each neighborhood, we’re destinations and activities are more go beyond the Inner Harbor for food, able to both empower our residents spread out, more connectivity between culture, history and sports, Hutchinson to be ambassadors for Baltimore, and modes and destinations would make it said. No wonder The New York Times, provide visitors with a more easier for residents and visitors alike to Zagat and Travel & Leisure all have written experience.” travel. about Baltimore as a destination in the last few months. Once in Baltimore City, visitors have a Michael B. Kelly, BMC executive director, plethora of options to get to where they said that he looks forward to working Likewise, Visit Baltimore’s #MyBmore want to go – from , to more with the local tourism industry to grassroots movement fueled by social the , Maryland Transit address the transportation challenges Fort McHenry in Baltimore City. Photo by BMC staff. media tells those neighborhood stories, Administration (MTA) BaltimoreLink bus that it faces in drawing in visitors. but also makes it easy for visitors to services, MARC Train, Metro SubwayLink search for what they want to see and and . “Better transportation planning between do. modes and communities will only help However, regional cooperation must our visitors to maximize their time here “Visitors want to go where the locals go, also extend into transportation and see more of what the Baltimore and each neighborhood has something planning, as it relates to tourism and region has to offer,” Kelly said. unique,” Hutchinson said. “By promoting visitors. In the counties, where tourist

A championship tournament in Harford County. Photo courtesy of Harford County

Annapolis by the water. Photo by Mike Boswell, Creative Commons.

18 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 19 “Ready? Set? Good!” Spring Carroll County Comprehensive Aggressive Driving Awareness PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 01 01 01 Awareness Campaign FEB Rezoning Public Meetings FEB Month MARCH TO TO TO If an emergency occurred 22 Comprehensive rezoning is 28 Take a minute to reflect on your 31 today, would you be prepared at B’more Involved FEB FEB MARCH intended to bring the county’s driving habits during February’s home? “Ready? Set? Good!” is a vision for the zoning code into the Aggressive Driving Awareness Month. call-to-action emergency preparedness B’More Involved promotes civic engagement in our region’s future. Public participation is essential campaign that encourages people to to the success of the effort. The put aside a portable, battery-powered transportation, planning, environmental justice and equity. This county will host outreach meetings by radio, flashlight and one gallon of water Commissioner District. per person, per day to help get them important information is a great way for you to learn more, stay through those first critical hours. National Bike Summit in up-to-date on important events, news, and, of course, let you FHWA Automated Driving PAC March Meeting 05 Systems Survey 05 Washington, D.C. 07 MARCH MARCH MARCH 5:30 p.m. at BMC know how you can B’More Involved! TO The League of American Automated Driving Systems (ADS) 07 Bicyclists’ National Bike Summit The PAC is a diverse group of residents, MARCH Comment Today! are increasingly being tested and is the premier bike advocacy representatives of community orga- introduced onto the public roadways. event of the year, uniting the voices of nizations, and industry professionals 12 The Baltimore Regional The FHWA is interested in hearing bicyclists on Capitol Hill. Together, we that provide essential independent, re- FEB Transportation Board (BRTB) from the public on a range of issues make our local, regional, and national gion-oriented advice regarding regional TO welcomes comments through related to assessing the infrastructure work a unified force of unstoppable transportation planning and related is- 14 MARCH Wednesday, March 14, on requirements and standards that may change. sues. funding updates to the 2018- be necessary for enabling safe and 2021 Transportation Improvement efficient operations of ADS. Program (TIP) and/or Maximize2040: A Performance-Based Transportation RIC Grant-Hunters Workshop APTA Washington, D.C. BRTB March Meeting 13 18 27 9 a.m. at BMC Plan for five Maryland State Highway MARCH MARCH Legislative Conference MARCH Administration (SHA) projects and one Discover what funders are TO Maryland Transportation Authority (MdTA) looking for in nonprofits seeking grants 20 The conference will educate The BRTB March meeting will take place MARCH project. and how to find potential funders in this members on federal legislation at 9 a.m. at the Baltimore Metropolitan introductory course. Register for the and policy initiatives; provides them with Council’s office, located at 1500 Whetstone The BRTB is scheduled to vote on the workshop on Eventbrite. the opportunity to shape future industry Way, Suite 300, Baltimore, MD, 21230. amendments on Tuesday, March 27 at positions and federal transportation 9 a.m. policy; and provides direction on the Public Advisory Committee to host Every legislative strategy and advocacy efforts. Voice Counts Transportation Academy #SafeWalks Twitter Chat 01 NHTSA Distracted Driver 04 PAC April Meeting 01 Intersections: Creating On Saturday, May 5, the • Learn about the transportation Join the National Aging and APRIL Awareness Month APRIL 5:30 p.m. at BMC APRIL Culturally Complete Streets 20 TO 05 FEB TO MAY BRTB and its Public Advisory decision-making process; Disability Transportation Center Committee (PAC) will host the and America Walks on Tuesday, 30 Distracted driving is dangerous, The PAC is a diverse group of residents, 30 The National Complete Streets APRIL APRIL Every Voice Counts Transportation • Identify ways that they can February 20, at 2 p.m. to find out how claiming 3,477 lives in 2015 representatives of community orga- Coalition partners with Trans- Academy at Impact Hub Baltimore. be proactive to improve communities across the U.S. can: alone. NHTSA leads the national nizations, and industry professionals portation for America’s Arts & Culture transportation; effort to save lives by preventing this that provide essential independent, re- team for its conference. Registration for this event will open in • Achieve safe walking conditions for dangerous behavior. Get the facts, get gion-oriented advice regarding regional March. To learn more, visit baltometro. • Learn who to contact and when; pedestrians; involved, and help us keep America’s transportation planning and related is- org or contact Monica B. Haines and roads safe. sues. Benkhedda at or call410-732-0500 • Put people first when designing and x1047. • Understand how transportation planning for safe walks; and 06 Light City Baltimore, first three 24 BRTB April Meeting 01 May is: is planned, funded, designed, APRIL weekends in April APRIL 9 a.m. at BMC MAY National Bike Month TO Every Voice Counts will bring together built and maintained. • Understand the challenges and TO Clean Air Month 100 residents, community leaders, opportunities associated with 21 Light City is a free festival The BRTB March meeting will take place 31 Motorcycle Safety Awareness APRIL MAY and non-traditionally engaged creating a safe walking that transforms Baltimore at 9 a.m. at the Baltimore Metropolitan Month participants for a day-long workshop environment. with large-scale light installations, Council’s office, located at 1500 Whetstone where they will: performances, music and innovation. Way, Suite 300, Baltimore, MD, 21230.

20 Baltimore Metropolitan Council COG Quarterly 21 FROM THE VAULT Stomp by our new blog!

ave you ever noticed Hramps that don’t connect to the highway as you’re traveling into or out of Baltimore City along I-95? The Regional Information Center at BMC has your answer! Here’s a hint - the map to your left comes to you from 1965 - the year that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. organized the march from Selma to Montgomery, and “Mary Poppins” was practically perfect in every way.

But not so fast, knowledge- seekers! If we’ve whetted your appetites, you’ll have to wait. Join us on Monday, February 26, as we publish the full story on our new blog, Stomping Grounds.

Stomping Grounds is the BMC’s bi-monthly blog, launched on Monday, February 12, that highlights local data that ties back to BMC’s area of work, and provides the audience with a better understanding of the Baltimore region.

22 Baltimore Metropolitan Council