Southern Management Companies, working with Workshop Development, has broken ground on a multi‑year modernization of Charles Plaza, the 857‑unit residential and commercial hub at the center of Baltimore’s historic Charles Center. The $1 million first phase, slated for completion in early 2027, will refresh building façades, signage and outdoor amenities, improving the daily environment for the plaza’s residents, tenants and visitors.
Phase One Focuses on Curb Appeal and Public Spaces
The initial upgrades target the exterior of the high‑rise apartment towers—Charles Towers, Park Charles, and 39 West Lexington, the latter occupying the former Baltimore Gas and Electric headquarters. New signage designed by Younts Design and a refreshed streetscape are intended to make the complex more welcoming to families and downtown workers alike.
Broader Vision for Downtown Revitalization
Southern Management, which acquired Charles Plaza in 1999, plans additional phases that will modernize retail, office and public areas throughout the property. The company has retained MacKenzie Commercial to lead leasing, with Streets Market already confirmed as an anchor tenant.
“We appreciate the leadership of Mayor Brandon Scott and his team in focusing on revitalizing downtown,” said Southern Management CEO Suzanne Hillman. “That’s why we have committed to strategically investing in Charles Plaza to improve the environment for our residents, tenants and patrons.”
Mayor Scott’s Downtown RISE initiative, administered by the Baltimore Development Corporation, provided supplemental support for the project. The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) also awarded Charles Plaza its first cluster façade improvement grant, a new DPOB program that funds multi‑tenant commercial revitalization projects that achieve a “full‑block impact.”
“We are proud to support the revitalization of Charles Plaza, which serves as a nexus for downtown residents, workers and visitors in the heart of the historic Charles Street corridor,” said Patrick Terranova, Vice President of Economic Development at the Downtown Partnership. “This project is a testament to how collaboration between the private, public and non‑profit sectors is adding vibrancy to our district, and we are thrilled to have a partner of Southern Management’s caliber doubling down on downtown in such a meaningful way.”
Economic and Community Benefits
The modernization aligns with a broader push to strengthen Baltimore’s central core, attract new activity to the Charles Street corridor and provide quality housing options for families seeking to live close to work, schools and worship. By improving the visual appeal and functionality of the plaza, the project aims to draw more shoppers to local retailers, create jobs in construction and property management, and enhance public safety through better lighting and maintained public spaces.
Southern Management’s portfolio includes 11 Baltimore City properties with more than 2,400 apartments, making it the largest private residential landlord in the city. The company’s investment in Charles Plaza underscores its commitment to the city’s long‑term growth and to preserving the historic character of downtown neighborhoods while meeting modern family needs.
Looking Ahead
Future phases will address interior upgrades, office space improvements and additional public amenities, with design led by BCT Architects and construction overseen by JC Porter Construction. The collaborative effort among developers, the mayor’s office, the Downtown Partnership and the Baltimore Development Corporation reflects a shared belief that a vibrant downtown benefits every Baltimore family and strengthens the city’s economic foundation.
As the first phase moves toward completion, residents and local business owners can look forward to a refreshed streetscape, brighter façades and a renewed sense of pride in one of Baltimore’s most iconic urban centers.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
