MCB Real Estate’s $900-million transformation of Harborplace is set to begin this fall, promising a reimagined waterfront with retail, dining, cultural spaces and green areas. The project aims to revitalize downtown Baltimore, boosting local businesses and restoring the Inner Harbor as a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
Tag: Shelonda Stokes
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s annual meeting showcases vision for downtown growth and connectivity
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore hosted its annual meeting on Nov. 5, highlighting the city’s progress and future plans under the Downtown RISE initiative. Leaders discussed ongoing efforts to attract investment, connect neighborhoods and make downtown more vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors.
Black women business owners are redefining Baltimore’s future
In Baltimore, Black women entrepreneurs are reshaping the city’s economic and cultural future. From downtown revitalization to oyster innovation and creative stationery, Shelonda Stokes, Jasmine Norton and Alisa Brock are building purpose-driven businesses rooted in community and resilience.
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore announces Baltimore Culinary Exchange grant program
The Baltimore Culinary Exchange (BCX) grant program creates support for existing and new restaurants as well as food entrepreneurs in Baltimore city.
Six regional HBCUs receive scholarships at the Presidents’ Roundtable 2025 Scholarship Awards Gala
By Ericka Alston BuckSpecial to the AFRO On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront transformed into a vibrant celebration of excellence and opportunity as the Presidents’ RoundTable (PRT) and the PRT Reach Foundation hosted the 2025 Scholarship Awards Gala. The evening’s spotlight was on higher education, honoring institutions with over $250,000 to date […]
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore releases annual ‘State of Downtown’ report
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) unveiled its 2024 State of Downtown report on March 20. The annual analysis provides updates on key indicators of the health of Baltimore’s Central Business District, including data on employment, tourism, employment, vacancies and public safety According to DPOB’s president, Shelonda Stokes, downtown is […]
Baltimore rings in New Year with Inner Harbor fireworks
Baltimore celebrated the New Year with fireworks, a concert from The Jonathan Gilmore Experience, and extended hours at the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, with Mayor Brandon M. Scott and his wife, Hana, in attendance.
A century of impact: Greater Baltimore Urban League celebrates 100 years of service
The Greater Baltimore Urban League celebrated its 100th anniversary with a gala event that recognized the contributions of individuals and organizations to advancing the social, economic and political equity of Baltimore’s Black community.
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore celebrates Central Business and Arts District at annual meeting
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore held its annual meeting on Oct. 10, celebrating local leaders and announcing a $7 billion development project, as well as a $10 million grant from the state of Maryland to support the city’s growth.
Baltimore’s Birthday Bash shines bright at the Inner Harbor
Live Baltimore celebrated Baltimore’s 295th birthday with a party at Harborplace, featuring local IPAs, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts, as well as a “sweetest treat” competition and a dance party with DJ Tanz.

