Regional leaders on Wednesday celebrated the completion of more than $35 million worth of projects to restore Baltimore’s Middle Branch waterfront and the start of construction on another $36 million project.
More than 20 acres of habitat have been restored at the Hanover Street Wetlands, Patapsco Delta East, and MedStar Harbor Hospital Wetlands – together totaling more than $35 million of investment in the Middle Branch.
The projects involved restoring degraded shoreline, improving habitat and water quality, making the area more resilient, and supporting future public access to the waterfront.
“When I visited the MedStar Harbor Hospital Wetlands last year, I saw firsthand the important work underway to restore wetlands that were damaged by pollution and decades of industrial activity,” said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen. “We worked to secure federal investments to support these projects, which are restoring Baltimore’s waterfront, strengthening flood protection, and safeguarding South Baltimore communities from the growing impacts of climate change for generations to come”
In restoring the shoreline, the projects are also improving access to the Middle Branch for residents of neighborhoods that have historically faced barriers to accessing and benefiting from the waterfront, including opportunities for walking, fishing, and other recreation.
“These five projects are projected to keep more than 200,000 pounds of nitrogen out of the Chesapeake Bay every year, and Maryland pays only for the pollution reductions that are proven,” Maryland environmental secretary Serena McIlwain said. That is how we get cleaner water at a lower cost, and it is why we will keep funding this program and others like it.”
Leaders also marked the beginning of construction on Smith Cove, a $36 million restoration and resilience project.
The project will take place at the intersection of Westport and Cherry Hill. It includes work to improve water quality, restore habitats, reduce the risk of flooding, and expand public access to the waterfront.
“We are fulfilling the promises made to South Baltimore communities as part of Reimagine Middle Branch, reconnecting communities to each other and their waterfront, while helping them be healthier and more resilient,” said Brad Rogers, Executive Director of South Gateway Partnership. “We’re proud of the engagement and partnerships that have made today’s celebration possible.”
