York Road In Towson May Get A Major Facelift
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- A portion of York Road could be getting a major facelift. Plans are in place to develop a block adjacent to Towson's campus, creating more retail and residential space.
Jessica Kartalija explains some aren't on board with the idea.
Right now, 101 York Road is home to Pizan's Pizza and York Liquors. But that could change.
"York and Burke is a signature location. It's the entry to Towson and we are committed to making 101 York a welcoming entrance and yet another successful addition to downtown Towson," said Mike Ertel, DMS Development.
DMS Development and County Executive Kevin Kamenetz are announcing plans for a new $60 million mixed-use complex right across from Towson's campus.
"The more opportunities we have to mix downtown Towson with Towson University, we think the healthier, more vibrant community we will have," said Kamenetz.
Not everyone agrees.
"It seems like they want to push all the small business people out of business, bring in chains of this, that and the other," said Towson resident Gary Adams.
York Liquors has been leasing the space for 17 years.
"It is what it is. There's not much I can do about it. I don't own the property. So I'll be going and we will have more student highrises behind us," said York Liquors owner Susan Aull.
"I don't know if they are going to relocate. I can say they are getting paid handsomely so they will have the money to do it, but they will certainly be relocating," said David Schlachman, DMS Development.
The new two-acre complex will be next to the Starbucks and will include 200 apartments with parking and street-level retail.
The entire renovation project is expected to be completed by 2018.
Local businesses on York Road have two years until they need to move out.
