GBC Announces 2024 Transportation and Economic Opportunity Series: Investing in a World-Class Transportation System

Two-Part Summit to Explore Billion-Dollar Development Opportunities and Innovative Funding Strategies for continuing momentum around the Red Line

(Baltimore, Md.) – The Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC) is set to host its second annual Transportation and Economic Opportunity Series across two dates—November 13 and November 18, 2024—at Brown Advisory, 901 S Bond Street, Unit 400, Baltimore, MD 21231. This year’s series will spotlight the transformative potential of the proposed Red Line project and its role in driving economic growth, enhancing accessibility, and revitalizing communities across the region. The events will focus on two key themes: development opportunities and impact along the Red Line corridor and innovative transportation funding strategies.

 

“The Red Line represents a once-in-a-generation chance to connect current and future residents to regional epicenters of growth, as well as local entrepreneurs and businesses to vital nodes of tourism and economic activity,” said Mark Anthony Thomas, President and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee. “We look forward to engaging the many stakeholders who care about this project in conversations about how development of the Red Line can support transit-oriented development, catalyze meaningful investment, and create new avenues of opportunity across the region.”

 

November 13: Billion Dollar Opportunities – Transit-Oriented Developments Along the Red Line: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Brown Advisory, 901 S. Bond Street, Unit 400

 

During this first event, attendees will hear from speakers who will highlight the potential for billions of dollars in commercial and residential development along the proposed Red Line corridor, showcasing how these projects will stimulate economic growth and foster vibrant communities.

 

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Faith Leach, Baltimore City Chief Administrative Officer
  • Rian Hargreave, Owner of Onyx Development
  • Amber Wendland, Associate Principal at the architectural firm Ayers Saint Gross
  • Luigi Rosa, Amtrak Assistant Vice President for the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program
  • David Bramble, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of MCB Real Estate

 

The event will also feature additional local developers, discussing projects like Harbor Point, Harborplace, the Security Square Mall reimagining, and redevelopment of the West Baltimore MARC station, among others.

 

The agenda includes:

  • Project Presentations: Learn about major projects along the Red Line that will reshape neighborhoods and provide new economic opportunities.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with business leaders, city and state officials, and developers to explore partnership and investment possibilities.
  • Vision for the Future: Engage in discussions on how the business community can support the Red Line to ensure its success

 

November 18: Billion Dollar Solutions – Exploring Innovative Transportation Funding Strategies: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Brown Advisory, 901 S. Bond Street, Unit 400

 

During this second session, attendees will hear from leaders from the Maryland House & Senate on strategies to increase transportation funding, specifically focusing on critical projects like the proposed Baltimore Red Line. This event aims to unite business leaders and policymakers to discuss viable funding solutions and build a strong coalition for the upcoming 2025 Maryland Legislative Session.

 

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Maryland General Assembly Delegate Stephanie Smith
  • Maryland General Assembly Delegate Mark Edelson
  • Maryland State Senator Cory McCray

 

The event will also feature other prominent figures in Maryland’s transportation policy landscape as well as the release of a long-awaited report from EY and supported in concert with the Greater Washington Partnership that will highlight the economic impact of The Red Line.

 

The agenda includes:

  • Expert Insights: Hear from a panel of state legislators who will share their perspectives on the current funding landscape and potential new revenue sources for transportation.
  • Impact on Business and Community: Learn how investing in transportation can boost economic development, improve accessibility, and enhance quality of life for residents and businesses.
  • Preparing for 2025: Better understand the issues to effectively advocate for transportation funding in the upcoming Legislative Session.

 

These events are free to GBC members and are $85 each for non-members. All tickets are available at https://gbc.org/events/. Light refreshments will be provided at both events. Sponsor companies for this event include Brown Advisory, AECOM, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, MedStar Health, Southwest Airlines, and the University of Maryland Medical System.

 

ABOUT GREATER BALTIMORE COMMITTEE:

The Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC) is the leading voice for the private sector in the Baltimore Region, providing insightful economic and civic leadership to drive collective impact. Comprised of more than 400 organizations, including large, mid-size, and small companies, nonprofits, foundations, and educational and healthcare institutions, the GBC is dedicated to fostering the prosperity of the Greater Baltimore region. For more information, visit gbc.org.