Downtown Towson is on the cusp of a building boom that will transform this suburban county seat into one of the most dynamic, cosmopolitan communities in Maryland.
All the elements are in place for this transformation. Towson has two institutions of higher education, Towson University and Goucher College, that not only provide world-class learning but also a work force that stabilizes the commercial core. Residential developments like Towson Green will make sure the downtown area does not become a ghost town after sunset and on the weekends. There are strong private organizations like the Towson Chamber of Commerce that sponsor community events. Baltimore County has poured tens of millions of dollars into the schools that serve downtown Towson, and it recently boosted the police precinct that patrols the commercial area.
Unfortunately, one important element is missing: a plan for dealing with the traffic that comes with new development. It is the biggest complaint I hear from residents. They are proud of their community and optimistic about the future but concerned about the gridlock that will come without thoughtful planning.
Note: Full source article has been deleted by Baltimore Sun (A better way for Towson to get around – baltimoresun.com
