BDC Selects Architects for CDBG-R Facade Improvement Project

Baltimore, MD (May 17, 2010) – The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) today announced the selection of two architectural firms for its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-R) Façade Improvement Project.

K. Lechleiter Architect, LLC + PI.KL Studio, LLC and John Mariani Architecture, P.A. were selected from among 18 responses.  Cost, design philosophy, small commercial building/project experience (especially in Baltimore) and demonstration of project understanding were all considered.

“This project is a very  tangible way to assist the City’s small businesses during this challenging economic time,” said BDC President M.J. “Jay” Brodie.

In December 2009, BDC issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for individuals and/or firms to provide architectural services for the Façade Improvement Project.  Respondents were required to be licensed architects in good standing in the State of Maryland with experience in the areas of urban design, historic preservation and planning.

The project will utilize $800,000 in CDBG-R funding awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for building façade improvements of contiguous properties in six targeted neighborhoods: Belair-Edison, Brooklyn, Oldtown, Pennsylvania Avenue, Pigtown and West Baltimore Street.  Businesses in each of the targeted neighborhoods have submitted applications for funding consideration, which are currently being reviewed. 

BDC plans to complete no less than five façade projects in each of the neighborhoods, with an overall goal of rehabbing approximately 40 commercial facades.