Baltimore Development Corporation
Baltimore, Maryland

After participating in the Pratt Street Design Concept Competition, the Baltimore Development Corporation selected Ayers/Saint/Gross, in association with Olin Partnership of Philadelphia as the winner. Our concept and design is as follows:

Pratt Street: Avenue of the Inner Harbor is the heart of downtown Baltimore. Centrally located, the identity of this seventeen block site is defined by the waters of the majestic Chesapeake Bay, breathtaking ships linking this early American city to the rest of the world, a prosperous business district, a prestigious educational institution, a triumphant sports field, and an eclectic mix of magnificent museums. With vision and a plan, we believe the Avenue of the Inner Harbor has potential to become a welcoming magnet for visitors and locals alike, with the same grandeur as the celebrated boulevards of the world, and an identity unique to Baltimore.

The vision is for a two-way tree-lined avenue, active with people, fountains, vibrant restaurants, shops and sidewalk kiosks, beautiful trees and parks, new architecture, boardwalks, high tech information kiosks and media wall, lighting that marks gateways and punctuates special events along its length, interactive sculptures and site furnishings that unite the site and provide comforts for pedestrians to linger. Central to this vision is sustainability, to continue to protect the Chesapeake watershed, educate people of its unique splendor, and demonstrate commitment to Baltimore’s long term prosperity.

Completion: 2007
Size: 18 acres