In 2000, WestSide Renaissance, Inc. was formed by a diverse group of public and private sector constituents for the sole purpose of revitalizing the Westside of Downtown Baltimore. The consortium of more than 35 public agencies, non-profits and businesses are working collaboratively to restore Baltimore's cultural and retail hub to its original grandeur with modern residential amenities, retail establishments and Class A commercial space to attract a new generation of residents, workers, shoppers and visitors to Baltimore.

Spearheading the efforts of WestSide Renaissance, Inc. are Peter Angelos, whose law offices have served as the headquarters for the revitalization planning; the Baltimore Development Corporation; The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and the University of Maryland Medical System and University of Maryland Baltimore. By 2006, an estimated $1 billion in public and private reinvestment will be made in the Westside of Downtown Baltimore to create an urban neighborhood that connects adjacent areas of Baltimore, as well as utilizes and preserves historic structures.

Among the highest priorities of the revitalization plan for the area is the development and redevelopment of residential properties. Over the next several years, more than 2,400 residential units will become available. Contemporary and upscale apartments and condominiums will attract those wishing to be among the early adopters of a new way of life in Baltimore. In close proximity to new residential units are planned retail and cultural attractions. The recently renovated Lexington Market and Centerpoint, a mixed-use project of the Bank of America featuring 394 residential units, will provide shoppers with a variety of shopping experiences. Scheduled to open in 2004, the Hippodrome Theater at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center is an entire cultural arts center complete with a theater complex, box offices, lobby areas, stage house and flexible space for events and performances. Supporting the mixed-use strategy are plans to continue increasing the neighborhood's commercial space. By the end of 2003, an estimated 800,000 square feet of additional office, research and academic space will be available. As the Westside continues to refurbish existing structures, a state-of-art telecommunications and electrical infrastructure is being installed to accommodate businesses and spawn further job creation in the area.