Joseph Libkey Jr. is a real estate development professional with a history of work revitalizing underserved, blighted neighborhoods in the greater Baltimore area.
Mr. Libkey recognizes that, in the current development landscape, there has been much ongoing conversation on the topic of revitalization and the most impactful ways to redevelop neighborhoods with the wellbeing of the community in mind.
Here, Mr. Libkey explores the topic of revitalization in the Baltimore region and the methods that he has employed to further contribute to neighborhoods in his past projects.
The Plan to Revitalize Baltimore
Many of us who have lived or spent time in Baltimore know that there are significant portions of the city that have been negatively impacted by racial discrimination, abandonment, crime, and poverty. This has made Baltimore the site of many redevelopment projects to further revitalize its neighborhoods and restore commercial areas within the city to their past glory.
Last April, it was announced that there has been a $166 million investment in state funding to revitalize both the Inner Harbor and Baltimore’s downtown area. This came after a lot of vocal support from state representatives to revitalize the area to feature more open and green space for visitors and locals to enjoy the local scenery, exercise, and patronize local businesses.
Just a few short months ago, the Governor of Baltimore, Wes Moore, alongside Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller and numerous city officials, development partners, and business owners joined to celebrate the reopening of Lexington Market.
The $45 million redevelopment of the 60,000 square-foot market building and public plaza has welcomed the return of over 40 local businesses and was met by excitement from members of the government, business leaders, and community members alike.
The Lexington Market revitalization and variety of plans to effectively utilize the $166 million presents that a brighter future is in store for Baltimore. With this in mind, Joe Libkey Jr. cites his previous revitalization experience to shine a light on the multiple considerations the city should uphold as it works to restore communities in the area as well.
Considerations for Baltimore as it Undergoes Massive Revitalization Projects
One of Joseph Libkey Jr.’s most notable achievements during his past real estate development work was spearheading neighborhood revitalization projects in an underserved area of Baltimore’s metro area. These projects ranged from large-scale restaurant developments to multi-family housing property renovations.
Mr. Libkey mentions that, even with a project smaller in scope, there were multiple considerations regarding the community and their wellbeing that also ring true for Baltimore’s current revitalization efforts.
For example, Joseph Libkey Jr. and his associates speak to how it is important to recognize the funding is just one side of the coin when it comes to comprehensive, effective redevelopment efforts. A community-first approach is always going to have a more sustainable impact than simply allocating money to problem areas.
How Can Baltimore Show a Commitment to Its Communities?
Using his past experience as a blueprint, Mr. Libkey notes that there are many ways that the Baltimore city government can work to show a commitment to its people during its ongoing revitalization efforts.
One of the most effective methods used by Mr. Libkey and his associates was facilitating community outreach to get a clearer picture of the locals’ diverse needs. Workforce development, job creation and economic empowerment programs serve as just a few examples of ways to ensure that money remains in redeveloped, revitalized communities.
Many of the factors contributing to problems associated with urban decay, blight, and underserved communities have to do with a fundamental lack of economic options. For this reason, it can be valuable for Baltimore to invest in sustainable solutions to these issues alongside funding crucial development projects that bring the city into the future.
Joe Libkey Jr. also recognizes that he and his colleagues have had success in past initiatives through synchronized coordination with local businesses, community members, and government agencies to work towards the common goal of neighborhood improvement.
The value here is that each of these groups within the Baltimore community have different perspectives and challenges as the city undergoes massive transformations. Providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and opinions can shed light on a plethora of considerations that local government may not have been previously aware of.
In Joseph Libkey Jr.’s experience, a diverse set of community members helped his team address issues related to affordable housing, infrastructure improvement, and community programming aiding vulnerable populations. Exploring these topics with locals can ensure that future changes are made in ways that bring optimum value to the community.
The Answer is the People
There are a variety of sources recently that have covered
some of the challenges that communities face as redevelopment efforts in Baltimore get underway. With more redevelopment to come, Baltimore has the opportunity to show a commitment to its people by not shying away from the obstacles and investing in the community for locals and visitors alike.
The path to true revitalization is a long one, however, with committed leaders keeping their eyes peeled for additional opportunities to positively contribute to the greater Baltimore area, the future can a source of pride and inspiration for all Baltimoreans!
