East Baltimore, Maryland, January 7, 2026
The $45 million redevelopment of the former Institute of Notre Dame in East Baltimore will convert the historic building into 126 affordable senior apartments and a community center. This project demonstrates a commitment to addressing housing needs for seniors while revitalizing the underinvested area by preserving its architectural heritage.
Baltimore, Maryland
Revitalizing East Baltimore: $45 Million Redevelopment Project
Transforming Historic Institute of Notre Dame into Affordable Housing
The $45 million redevelopment of the former Institute of Notre Dame in East Baltimore is set to begin in 2026. This ambitious venture aims to convert the historic all-girls Catholic high school into 126 affordable senior apartments, bolstered by a community center and small office spaces. This project reflects the determination of local entrepreneurs and businesses to innovate under conditions that can support economic growth and community development.
In recent years, the region has witnessed a trend of repurposing historic buildings for modern needs, clearly indicating that reducing red tape and embracing private sector solutions can pave the way for revitalization in our neighborhoods. This investment signals a recognition of the importance of affordable housing for our aging population and demonstrates community commitment through collaborative efforts.
Project Details
- Location: East Baltimore, Maryland
- Project Cost: $45 million
- Number of Units: 126 affordable senior apartments
- Additional Facilities: Community center, small office spaces
- Design Firm: Urban Design Group
- Financing Sources: Historic tax credits, private funds, Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund
- Completion Date: 2027
Background and Heritage
The Institute of Notre Dame has been a cornerstone of education in East Baltimore since its establishment in 1847. However, the school closed its doors in 2019 due to declining enrollment and financial challenges. The redevelopment project marks a significant investment in the community, aiming to provide affordable housing options for seniors while revitalizing an underinvested area. The collaboration between Severn Development and CAM Management speaks to a growing trend in the repurposing of educational facilities, balancing preservation with the need for modern housing solutions.
Similar Redevelopment Initiatives
This redevelopment in Baltimore is not an isolated case. Other cities have embraced the conversion of historic educational properties into residential spaces. In Waterbury, Connecticut, a former Catholic school is being transformed into affordable housing tailored for healthcare workers. Likewise, in Detroit, Michigan, the transformation of the William E. Higginbotham Elementary School into the Higginbotham Art Residences is set to provide 100 units of affordable housing by early 2026. These examples illustrate a nationwide movement towards revitalizing historic buildings while addressing community housing needs.
Community Impact and Engagement
The redevelopment of the Institute of Notre Dame is poised to foster positive change in East Baltimore. The project will directly address housing shortages for the senior population, providing much-needed affordable options. By incorporating a community center and office spaces, the planned development expects to stimulate social interactions and economic activities within the area. Moreover, preserving the architectural integrity of the historic building will enhance the cultural heritage of the neighborhood and open the door for further investments.
Funding Structure and Support
This initiative is financially supported through a blend of historic tax credits, private funding, and contributions from the Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund, which is dedicated to revitalizing underinvested regions. The backing of local developers and design consultants showcases the commitment to developing robust community-driven initiatives that prioritize both historical preservation and modern housing solutions.
Future Prospects for Economic Development
Looking ahead, the Institute of Notre Dame redevelopment is expected to serve as a model for similar projects across other urban landscapes. Successfully transforming historic locations into modern residential and community spaces can inspire needed investments in revitalization. This redevelopment could emerge as a pillar of East Baltimore’s growth, offering valuable insights into balancing preservation with innovative development strategies.
Conclusion
The $45 million redevelopment of the former Institute of Notre Dame is more than just a construction project; it represents a committed investment in the community’s future. By transforming a cherished educational institution into affordable housing and community spaces, this initiative aims to uplift East Baltimore, addressing critical housing needs while respecting the area’s architectural history. As construction begins in 2026, the Residences at Notre Dame are set to play a vital role in the ongoing revitalization of the region, encouraging increased community engagement and economic growth.
FAQ
- What is the Institute of Notre Dame redevelopment project?
- The $45 million redevelopment project aims to convert the former all-girls Catholic high school in East Baltimore into 126 affordable senior apartments, complemented by a community center and small office spaces. The project is a collaboration between Severn Development and CAM Management, with construction set to begin in 2026 and completion expected by 2027.
- Who are the developers involved in the project?
- The redevelopment is a collaboration between Severn Development and CAM Management.
- What is the expected completion date of the project?
- The project is expected to be completed by 2027.
- How is the project being financed?
- The financing includes a combination of historic tax credits, private funds, and support from the Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund, which focuses on revitalizing underinvested areas.
- What is the significance of this redevelopment for the community?
- The redevelopment aims to provide affordable housing for seniors, address housing shortages, and support the aging population. The inclusion of a community center and office spaces is expected to foster social engagement and economic activity in the area. Additionally, the preservation and adaptive reuse of the historic building will contribute to the neighborhood’s cultural and architectural heritage, serving as a catalyst for further development and investment in the region.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | East Baltimore, Maryland |
| Project Cost | $45 million |
| Number of Units | 126 affordable senior apartments |
| Additional Facilities | Community center, small office spaces |
| Design Firm | Urban Design Group |
| Financing Sources | Historic tax credits, private funds, Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund |
| Completion Date | 2027 |
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