The Midtown Community Benefits District is excited to announce the development of a new mural for the Maryland Avenue Bridge, a vibrant addition to the city’s public art scene. Baltimore-based artist Saba Hamidi has been commissioned to create the mural. This project is one of eight subprojects within the comprehensive Falls Gateway Master Plan and is made possible through with support from the Central Baltimore Partnership. Work on the mural began on June 6, and it is expected to take six weeks to complete.
“We are thrilled to bring Saba Hamidi’s incredible talent to the Maryland Avenue Bridge project,” said Eric Souza, president of the Midtown Community Benefits District. “This mural is a testament to our commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering a sense of community through art. We are grateful for the support of the Central Baltimore Partnership and look forward to the mural’s completion.”
Hamidi, an experienced designer known for her skills in design strategy, conceptualization, and visual storytelling, shared her excitement about the project, saying, “It’s an honor to contribute to Baltimore’s rich cultural landscape. My goal with this mural is to create a visual narrative that resonates with the community and adds beauty to an everyday space. I can’t wait to see it come to life.”
The Falls Gateway Master Plan, supported by a $25K grant from the Goldseker Foundation, was developed in partnership with Mahan Rykiel and RK&K. The plan includes several key elements to improve the areas from the CSX underpass to Charles Street:
1. Upgrades to Three Underpasses: Enhancements in lighting and removal of staged materials to increase security and create public placemaking opportunities. The impacted underpasses are the CSX Underpass, North Avenue Underpass, and Howard Street Underpass.
2. Jones Falls Trail Adjustments: Shifting the trail to the south side of the project area, with adjustments along Falls Road continuing to Lanvale Street.
3. Art and Placemaking Enhancements: Incorporating murals, lighting, public alley conversions for entertainment and social gatherings, and additional pocket art opportunities throughout the project area.
For more information about Saba Hamidi, visit www.madebysaba.com. For further details on the Falls Gateway Master Plan and other projects by the Midtown Community Benefits District, visit www.midtownbaltimore.org.
About Midtown Community Benefits District
The Midtown Community Benefits District is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Midtown Baltimore through a variety of community-driven projects and initiatives. Our mission is to foster a vibrant, safe, and attractive environment for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
About Central Baltimore Partnership
The Central Baltimore Partnership works collaboratively with community stakeholders to promote equitable economic development and enhance the quality of life in central Baltimore.
About the Goldseker Foundation
The Goldseker Foundation provides strategic investments to strengthen the Baltimore community, focusing on impactful and sustainable initiatives.