The Town of Bel Air engaged Mr. Bleinberger’s firm to prepare a downtown revitalization strategy that focused on attracting restaurants and retail to Main Street, which had seen a transition to storefront professional offices and social service agencies over the previous decade. Other concerns were vacancies and overall business recruitment and retention issues.
The plan has been implemented, resulting in the attraction of 13 restaurants to the downtown area. The retention of an iconic restaurant that was threatened by office conversion was achieved, as was the hiring of a Main Street manager, and expansion of a special events program that has further increased interest and activity in downtown.
As a small town, Bel Air nonetheless exists in a growth market environment that was dimensioned by Mr. Bleinberger and used as the foundation for revitalization recommendations. The study was used as the basis for a handbook for downtown businesses and for prospective investors. It continues to be in wide use.
The Town of Bel Air straddles the Rt. 1 corridor about 40 miles north of Baltimore. Downtown businesses, including restaurants, had lost market share to the dominance of nearby retail and entertainment centers. Today, Bel Air has regained its position as a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike.