In the article "State analysts raise doubts about State Center project" (Dec. 3), reporter Michael Dresser notes the lengthy history of the State Center project, its proponents and its opponents and its benefits and potential drawbacks. However, he fails to note the biggest loser in decade-long quarrel — the neighborhoods surrounding State Center. Originally envisioned as a savior for the area, the State Center has been an albatross on the redevelopment of vibrant urban neighborhoods surrounding the state office complex. Until the State Center development issue is resolved, the neighborhoods of Bolton Hill, Madison Park, Mount Vernon and Seton Hill will fail to achieve their full potential.
We urge Governor-elect Larry Hogan and his staff, Peter G. Angelos and other downtown property holders to come to the table and make a deal to the benefit of the state and the neighborhoods that have suffered from a decade of State Center development limbo. A building site in the heart of several historic neighborhoods with easy access to Metro, MARC, light rail and bus lines is too good a development opportunity to sit fallow. Whether it is a purely private development or some mix of public and private funds, continued inaction will only further serve to undermine the nascent development of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Eric K. Hontz, Baltimore
The writer is a board member of the Mount Royal Community Development Corporation.