The Belvedere Improvement Association (BIA) made a significant move by acquiring an adjacent property from War Horse Cities, located in the 5800 block of York Road, next to the Belvedere Square shopping center. This property, which has sat vacant for over two decades, previously served as a parking lot for small businesses in the area.
Founded in 1950, the BIA represents nearly 600 households in the North Baltimore community of Belvedere. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the BIA played a pivotal role in revitalizing Belvedere Square, with a focus on supporting small, locally owned businesses. Now, with the acquisition of this adjacent property, the BIA has set the stage for further community development and control in the York Road corridor.
Historic Achievement for the Neighborhood
Kristy Taylor, a Belvedere resident and treasurer of BIA, expressed excitement about the purchase, calling it a historic achievement for the neighborhood. She highlighted the opportunity for residents to have a significant say in shaping the future of the York Road corridor and reiterated the organization’s commitment to enhancing the community.
Legislative Support and Community Involvement
The purchase of the property was made possible through funds allocated by a legislative bond initiative, with State Sen. Mary Washington leading the effort. Sen. Washington, representing District 43, which includes Belvedere and much of Baltimore City, played a crucial role in securing the necessary resources for the acquisition. Moving forward, BIA plans to collaborate with various stakeholders to develop comprehensive plans for the newly acquired property.
Community-Led Development and Advocacy
As an all-volunteer organization, BIA is dedicated to advocating for its residents and fostering a vibrant community that strikes a balance between residential and commercial interests. The acquisition of the adjacent property signifies a significant milestone in BIA’s ongoing efforts to empower residents and shape the future of Belvedere.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the adjacent property by the Belvedere Improvement Association marks a pivotal moment for the community, signaling a new chapter in community-controlled spaces in Baltimore City. With a strong foundation of advocacy, collaboration, and community engagement, BIA is poised to lead transformative initiatives that will benefit residents and businesses alike.
