The Johnston Square Vision Plan provides a blueprint for equitable reinvestment in this historic, 110-acre east Baltimore neighborhood. An inclusive planning process crafted a shared vision to guide a collaborative partnership of non-profit developers, institutions, neighborhood organizations and the City to build a more resilient and healthier community. The plan recommends a design and implementation framework to create a safe and walkable neighborhood where a network of safe and multi-modal tree-lined streets and engaging park spaces enhance the quality of life. Strategic infill development will activate public spaces and strengthen the Greenmount Corridor. The plan provides opportunities for new housing choices and strategies to protect legacy residents. Design, branding and management strategies encourage business and retail reinvestment along Greenmount Avenue and to attract and expand creative businesses into the neighborhood.

Hord Coplan Macht served as the lead planning and design consultant. HCM facilitated engaging community outreach meetings, including a series of interactive small group poster sessions. The small group sessions enabled residents and stakeholders to discuss identify goals, program needs and prioritize revitalization opportunities. As a planning and design consultant, HCM provided landscape, streetscape and concept building designs to create active streets, multi-generational public park spaces, connective greenways, and a variety of housing and commercial development opportunities to support a diverse and stable neighborhood. HCM prepared illustrative exhibits, graphics, and narratives to share a unified vision. The Baltimore City Planning Board unanimously endorsed this Vision Plan in March 2020.

Details
Neighborhood: 110 Acres
New Residential: 350 DU
New Commercial: 41,000 SF
New Community Space: 5,000 SF
Neighborhood Park: 3.67 Acres
Greenway: ½ mile (3 Acres)