Reisterstown, Maryland, is a historic Main Street retail district spanning five blocks in western Baltimore County. Established in the 18th century as a waypoint between Baltimore City and western Maryland, the area predominantly features 19th-century architecture and hosts a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and local services. Adjacent to scenic horse country, it attracts cyclists and day-trippers while serving the needs of local residents.
Reisterstown Main Street has developed a comprehensive Streetscape Action Plan, Design Guidelines, and a retail strategy to define and enhance the community's identity. These initiatives seek to improve the experience for local residents and increase the district's appeal as a regional destination.
This proposed vision transforms streets that have marginalized people and public space since the mid-20th century into safe, inviting, and vibrant places for people to walk, bike, gather, and socialize. Essential business operations can thrive in unison with the district’s pedestrian priority and safety goals. The resulting vision sets a new path forward that builds on the area’s strengths as a walkable community and uplifts its historical small-town character.
Streetscape Action Plans and Design Guidelines are essential tools in urban planning, providing a structured approach to enhancing public spaces. They offer a comprehensive framework for developing streetscapes that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, promoting safety and accessibility for all users. By establishing clear standards and policies, these documents guide the transformation of streets into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environments that reflect the community's character and history. This process involves integrating elements such as landscaping, lighting, signage, and traffic management to create cohesive and inviting public spaces. The implementation of these plans and guidelines is crucial for fostering economic vitality, encouraging social interaction, and improving the overall quality of life within the community
The Reisterstown Streetscape Action Plan is an amendment to Master Plan 2030, and the Reisterstown Design Guidelines are included in the Comprehensive Manual of Development Policies (CMDP). More info HERE
