An Exciting Campus Vibrancy Update
Dear UMB Community,
We are very excited to share that, earlier today, the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents approved a transformative development project that will advance our vision to build a more vibrant, connected, and welcoming University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) campus.
The West Lexington Corridor Development Project will bring modern, amenity-rich residential, retail, and outdoor recreation spaces along Lexington Street, from Lexington Market to Pine Street. This project will be funded primarily by Wexford Science & Technology (approximately $263 million), with land and additional funding committed by UMB (approximately $18 million net). Wexford, the main developer in the University of Maryland BioPark, partners with leading universities, academic medical centers, research institutions, and innovative companies to develop world-class mixed-use environments.
The plan centers on construction completed in two phases: a North Quad and renovation of Pascault Row along Lexington Street, and a South Quad along Fayette Street. In addition to creating a bustling environment with new restaurants and shops, this work will support placemaking enhancements such as green spaces and parklets, sidewalk and streetscape improvements, and public art. Up to 1,300 people could move into new state-of-the-art, high-rise housing right on our campus.
At UMB, we are deeply committed to our role as an anchor institution in Baltimore. This means investing not only in education and research, but also in the economic and social well-being of our city. This project reflects that commitment.
Importantly, the West Lexington Corridor Development Project is designed to welcome the broader public, support local businesses, and contribute to a more dynamic Lexington Market corridor. This development builds on vibrancy work well underway across our campus — including the construction of our new School of Social Work building and the opening of 4MLK in 2025 — and reflects our unwavering confidence in the future of downtown Baltimore.
In the coming months, we look forward to sharing more detailed information about plans, timelines, and ways you can provide input that will help shape the future of our campus.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the USM Board of Regents. Their actions today affirm our shared belief: that by investing thoughtfully in our city, we strengthen our ability to educate, make bold discoveries, and best serve our community — here in Baltimore and everywhere you find UMB students and alumni.
Sincerely,
Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS
President
Roger J. Ward, EdD, JD, MSL, MPA
Provost and Executive Vice President
James L. Hughes, MBA
Chief Enterprise and Economic Development Officer and Senior Vice President
Dawn M. Rhodes, DBA
Chief Business and Finance Officer and Senior Vice President
