City doesn’t favor grants to downtown businesses

Halfway through the 18-month downtown construction project, city officials remain opposed to grant support for struggling businesses. Construction began in April for the $16 million renovation project, designed to replace below-ground utilities and reinstall Baltimore Street through the pedestrian mall. The construction has created hardship for businesses, particularly in regard to access. Some businesses have taken to publishing pleas for help on social media asking for support with some seeing increased business or canceling of invoices from businesses as a result.