Business

A new report evaluating the possibility of a Chesapeake Bay passenger ferry in Anne Arundel County and other waterfront jurisdictions shows it could stimulate economic growth across the region, though it would operate at a $2.5 million loss in its first year. The report, unveiled Thursday at the Maryland Association of Counties conference in Ocean City, includes potential routes, ridership estimates, vessel requirements and financial analysis.

Welcome to brat summer, where we embrace the messy, wild and downright delicious side of Baltimore’s sausage scene. Inspired by Charli XCX’s carefree vibes from her latest album “Brat” (and the consequent memes and lime green aesthetic that have since taken over the internet), this guide will take you through the city’s top spots for hot dogs, glizzies and bratwursts. From viral creations to smoky delights, these picks are perfect for those who love to eat, party and live a little on the edge.

The Lyric Baltimore has chosen not to renew its contract with one of the largest venue and event management companies in the world and will instead bring the services in-house. The Lyric signed a five-year contract with ASM Global in 2019 for the company to run the theater’s operations that is due to expire on Sept. 30. Jonathan Schwartz, the Lyric Foundation’s executive director, said he feels the Lyric is now in a position to run those services itself after learning from ASM over the past five years.

Electric customers in Baltimore Gas and Electric’s area can expect average increases of $21 per month, or about $250 a year, on their bills starting next June, on top of previously announced rate hikes and transmission line costs, a state agency that represents ratepayers is warning. The Office of People’s Counsel, which advocates for utility customers, blames poor planning by the regional grid operator, both for new transmission projects and in managing wholesale power markets, and warns that consumers will be hit by years of unprecedented cost increases.

Fans of a popular Fells Point Farmers Market vendor can now get its food during the week with the opening of its first brick-and-mortar shop. Arepi, a Venezuelan vendor serving arepas, opened at 1616 Thames St. on Aug. 8. The restaurant replaces the former Luna Garden, which closed in August 2023 after just one year in business.

Arundel Mills plans to implement a youth supervision policy next month. Starting on Sept. 6, the mall will require all visitors under 18 to be accompanied at all times by a parent or adult, 21 or older, after 3 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Youths who are unsupervised must leave the property by 3 p.m. on Fridays or Saturdays or immediately be joined by a parent or adult age 21 or older, according to the new policy.