The Johnston Square Neighborhood: A Community on the Rise

Johnston Square, located within Baltimore City's East Impact Investment Area, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Spearheaded by various community-driven initiatives and urban development projects, this neighborhood is poised to become a vibrant, safe, and inclusive community.

Recent and Ongoing Projects

ReBuild Johnston Square Projects: ReBuild Metro has taken a proactive role in revitalizing Johnston Square through numerous projects aimed at enhancing the neighborhood's infrastructure and community facilities. Detailed information about these initiatives is available on the ReBuild Metro website.

Ribbon Cutting at Greenmount and Chase: In November 2021, Johnston Square celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of a new affordable housing community at the intersection of Greenmount and Chase. This development has injected fresh vitality into the area, offering new housing opportunities and fostering a sense of renewal and optimism among residents.

Community Enthusiasm for New Developments: The residents of Johnston Square are thrilled about the ongoing developments, particularly the new park and library on the 400 block of Biddle Street. These additions are creating new recreational and educational opportunities for the community, further boosting the neighborhood’s appeal.

Henrietta Lacks Park Pool Opening: Another notable advancement is the opening of the pool at Henrietta Lacks Educational Park. This facility is a testament to Baltimore's commitment to improving recreational amenities for its residents, providing a valuable space for relaxation and community engagement.

Future Planning and Vision: Johnston Square's future is envisioned as a safe, walkable neighborhood characterized by diverse housing options, thriving businesses, and essential services. The community's layout will feature well-connected public streets and open spaces that foster a welcoming environment. The strategic plan focuses on enhancing transportation access, economic opportunities, and supporting programs that sustain social networks and encourage reinvestment.

Core Development Themes

  • Establishing a Clean and Attractive Neighborhood: Initiatives are in place to ensure Johnston Square is well-maintained and visually appealing.
  • Diverse Retail and Housing Options: The plan includes a mix of retail spaces and housing choices to cater to various needs and preferences.
  • Developing Open Spaces and Community Assets: Creating parks, recreational areas, and other community assets to enhance the quality of life.
  • Ensuring Safe Streets: Implementing measures to make streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

In December 2022, a Community Conversation event took place, engaging residents both in person and virtually. This event highlighted the collaborative spirit of Johnston Square’s revitalization efforts and showcased the community's commitment to shaping a prosperous future.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Johnston Square benefits from its strategic location within the East Impact Investment Area. It is supported by stable markets to the north and northeast, and it is adjacent to strengthening areas to the south. The neighborhood’s proximity to successful areas like Barclay and Greenmount West, as well as Penn Station, adds to its potential for growth and development.

Overall, Johnston Square is on an exciting path of transformation, driven by community enthusiasm, strategic planning, and comprehensive development projects. The neighborhood is set to become a model of urban revitalization, offering a high quality of life for its residents, and becoming a beacon of hope and progress in Baltimore City.