Baltimore County Council Works To Revitalize Towson
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- The Baltimore County Council has adopted a new measure to help revitalize downtown Towson.
Andrea Fujii explains it's meant to attract new businesses and new shoppers.
Parts of downtown Towson are booming, like Towson Town Center. But other areas, like near the recently sold Towson Commons, continue to struggle.
"That just seems dead right now," said one Towson resident.
"It definitely has potential," said another.
To build on that potential, the Baltimore County Council has adopted a new strategy called The Urban Design Principles. The idea is for a more walkable downtown, like Bethesda. They want more attractive storefronts, open windows and lots of doors.
"If they build using these principles, it helps them fast track their program, which helps them save a lot of time and money," said Nancy Hafford, Towson Chamber of Commerce.
And the plan is already working, as clothing store Urban Outfitters is opening soon.
"It's very helpful to get businesses to move in, because when the businesses move in, it's tax dollars to our community," Hafford said.
Some residents don't welcome change.
"I'd hate to see it turn into Bethesda," said one.
Others have ideas of what they'd like to see.
"I think there should be a new movie theater," said one.
"Just maybe more older crowd-oriented restaurants and bars," said another.
The Urban Design Principles aren't mandatory, but city planners hope it'll drive desirable businesses to come, stay and grow.
Last month, CNN's Money Magazine ranked Towson the 14th best place in the country to live.
