Baltimore, May 16, 2024 - On Thursday, May 9, the Baltimore Convention Center achieved a significant milestone as Executive Director Mac Campbell traveled to Annapolis for the signing of Senate Bill 0896. This bill establishes the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Redevelopment and Operating Organization Task Force, marking a pivotal moment for the center. Set to take effect on July 1, 2024, the legislation empowers a dedicated task force to thoroughly assess the venue's needs and produce a comprehensive analysis report essential for its ongoing operation/governance and needed modernization.
This bill follows the allocation of $25.7 million to the venue by the State and $6.9 million by the City in 2023. Approved by the Board of Estimates on April 3, $20 million will be used for facility upgrades and stabilization, including enhancements to the HVAC, safety features, and new water treatment systems as well as client-facing systems such as exterior architectural lighting, pedestrian-walkway improvements and renovations to restrooms in our exhibit halls. The remaining $5 million will fund research and a larger study to determine the necessary steps for the venue's renovation. The 6.9m in city capital funding came as a surplus supplemental from the 2022 fiscal year. Ensuring that our customers have a truly “elevated” experience, seven new elevators will be commissioned between 2023 and February 2025.
In addition to securing state and municipal funding, the venue has announced a new partnership with Levy, as the exclusive catering provider. Beginning operations in July, Levy is expected to enhance our dining offerings and menus. Moreover, this collaboration, coupled with our government funding, will facilitate exciting patron-facing concepts, bringing advanced solutions to further grow our services.
The Baltimore Convention and Tourism Redevelopment and Operating Organization Task Force, staffed by the Maryland Department of Commerce, will make recommendations for an entity that will be able to manage property acquisition, define renovation scope, and establish agreements. Recommendations will also support an organization that may set service fees and property regulations, and issue bonds for the renovation and maintenance of property in its control. Findings will be presented in by December of 2024, detailing steps, funding, and the timeline for the various deliverables.
Mac Campbell shared these significant updates during this week's National Travel and Tourism Week Proclamation Reading and Kick-off event, hosted by the Maryland Tourism Coalition. Addressing a gathering of hospitality professionals and stakeholders on Monday morning, Mac underscored the importance of these developments and outlined the forthcoming stages in the Baltimore Convention Center's journey.
" Senate Bill 896 establishes a task force dedicated to examining the intricate city-state funding relationship for the Baltimore Convention Center. Charged with reimagining the governance of the BCC, the task force will also develop bold strategies to amplify its economic impact through the modernization and expansion of usable space within the facility. We are thrilled that the General Assembly recognized this need and that Governor Moore is prioritizing a true Baltimore renaissance, positioning us prominently on the national stage." Stated Executive Director, Mac Campbell