Turner Development has started construction on the first phase of public improvements for Westport Waterfront, a $1.2 billion mixed-use development on 50 acres along the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River in Baltimore. The work includes construction of a "living shoreline wetland" along 900 feet of the riverfront. Maryland's Department of the Environment awarded $620,500 in federal stimulus funds to Turner to help reconstruct the shoreline and create the tidal wetlands. It's the first step in making 25 acres of the Westport Waterfront site ready for building construction. It will be followed by construction of roads, landscaping, utilities and bike paths starting in the spring. Construction of a luxury apartment structure developed by the Landex Cos. is expected to begin in 2011.

- Edward Gunts