Mayor Rawlings-Blake Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Baltimore's Preservation Commission 

Commission Nationally Recognized for Overseeing Redevelopment of Local Historic Districts 

BALTIMORE, Md. (June 27, 2014)—Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Baltimore City Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP). CHAP oversees 33 historic districts and nearly 200 city landmarks, including approximately 13,000 structures.

"Preserving what makes our communities unique is vital to spurring economic growth in our city," said Mayor Rawlings-Blake "Many of these historic districts have become vibrant, sought-after neighborhoods. By cherishing our historic treasures, we will continue to attract families, young professionals, retirees, and others who love the unique and charming character of Baltimore's diverse historic architecture."

A highpoint of CHAP's tenure has become the Local Historic Preservation property tax credit, which has leveraged over $700 million in investment through more than 1,900 completed rehab projects—making it one of the most successful historic preservation tax credit projects in the country.

CHAP is also credited with launching the country's first municipal outdoor sculpture conservation program, creating some of the country's most exemplary adaptive reuse projects, and helping the Baltimore Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) establish the most extensive urban homesteading program in the country, which resulted in the creation and redevelopment of several local historic districts.

Throughout the year, CHAP will celebrate the past 50 years of historic preservation. The celebration will include a special commemorative event on October 28, 2014 at 6:00 pm. For more information, please contact Eric Holcomb at 443-984-2728 or eric.holcomb@baltimorecity.gov.