BALTIMORE, MD (Tuesday, March 11, 2025) — Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott released the Bmore FAST (Facilitating Approvals and Streamlining Timelines) Report, a comprehensive plan designed to modernize and streamline Baltimore's permitting and development approval processes. The new report expands on a series of actionable recommendations to promote growth, improve efficiency, transparency, and the overall business and resident friendliness of the city’s development systems. Last week, Mayor Scott released a framework for these reforms, including the formation of the Bmore FAST Advisory Group, a diverse group of stakeholders who will assist in guiding the successful implementation of these critical reforms.
The Bmore FAST report follows a thorough review of Baltimore’s current development processes, identifying key inefficiencies and obstacles that delay progress. It emphasizes better coordination across city agencies, streamlined workflows, and practical solutions to eliminate bottlenecks. These reforms are designed to create a faster, more transparent permitting system that supports continued growth and encourages investment in Baltimore.
“Baltimore is at a defining moment, with a $3 billion investment plan aimed at revitalizing vacant properties over the next 15 years, alongside significant investments in every corner of our city,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “To seize this historic opportunity, we must ensure that outdated development processes don’t stand in the way of progress. The Bmore FAST initiative is focused on reducing red tape, improving efficiency, and accelerating development, all while maintaining our commitment to safety, equity, and the well-being of our communities.”
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Baltimore into the premier destination for development and investment, fostering innovation, creating jobs, and building a more prosperous future for all who live and work here,” said Doug Schmidt, Chair for the Baltimore Development Workgroup.
"The strategy outlined in the plan represents a critical shift toward creating a more equitable, sustainable Baltimore. By expanding opportunities for neighborhood-scale development, the City is showing real commitment to removing barriers that have historically prevented many residents from accessing quality housing and economic opportunity,” said Jed Weeks, Executive Director for Bikemore. “These changes will enable the connected, accessible neighborhoods that Bikemore has long advocated for. We're particularly encouraged by proposals that align with our vision for a city where people can safely and conveniently travel by bike, transit, and on foot."
"BMore FAST represents the potential for the most comprehensive permit and land use reform in a generation. Deputy Mayor Williams' unique experience in private practice and willingness to listen as a public servant have all lead to this transformational proposal,” said Jacob Wittenberg, President of the Baltimore City Chapter of the Maryland Building Industry Association.
"Bmore FAST is a welcome step that will align Baltimore's development processes with the need for equitable growth and community revitalization. In my prior professional work and now as Planning Commission Chair, I've seen firsthand how streamlining these processes can unlock tremendous potential citywide while maintaining essential oversight to protect and preserve Baltimore's unique character,” said Jon M. Laria, Chair for the Baltimore City Planning Commission. “Bmore FAST should help ensure that good projects move forward efficiently, creating both housing opportunities and vibrant commercial enterprise. The Planning Commission is committed to working together with the Mayor and the new Advisory Group to implement changes which will benefit all of Baltimore.”
"As a developer working directly in Baltimore's historically underserved communities, I've experienced firsthand how complex permitting processes can create significant barriers for small, minority-owned firms like Rebirth Development. The Bmore FAST initiative represents a game-changing opportunity to level the playing field and unlock the potential of our neighborhoods,” said Victor Akinnagbe, Director for Rebirth Development. By streamlining approvals and creating targeted support for emerging developers, Mayor Scott's administration is making it possible for community-focused firms to rehabilitate more vacant properties and create affordable housing options where they're needed most. These reforms recognize that true neighborhood transformation happens when the development process becomes accessible to those with deep community connections and a commitment to equitable revitalization."
This reform effort is an essential part of Mayor Scott’s broader agenda to modernize city government, enhance service delivery, and improve the quality of life for all Baltimore residents and businesses. The Bmore FAST initiative is designed to make Baltimore more responsive, competitive, and attractive to developers, positioning the city as a leader in urban revitalization.
Read the full, comprehensive Bmore FAST (Facilitating Approvals and Streamlining Timelines) Report here.
A summary of the Bmore FAST previously-announced framework can be found here. Interested individuals can apply to join the Bmore FAST Advisory Group through the City's Boards & Commission's webpage.
