At the South Charles at Hamburg Street intersection, a sign reads:
“Welcome to Federal Hill (c. 1788). Enjoy!”
Foreshadowed with this faded sign affixed to the vacant Shofer’s Furniture Clearance Center (shuttered in 2021), Federal Hill Main Street embodies COVID-recovery challenges.
On the other side of the street, the vacant Shofer’s Furniture Store and recently closed CVS suppress South Baltimore’s commercial & communal heartbeat.
While neighborhood associations work to attract businesses, this intersection is prime for activation. On weekends and game days, large crowds pass to gather at the Cross Street locus.
Federal Hill’s assets—outdoor spaces, museums, landmarks, diverse residents—deserve a 24-7 gateway fostering interaction and celebrating the community’s dynamism.
Beyond the economic impact, activating this intersection will have a social impact.
Contrary to BPD data contributing to the Main Street depression, there is a narrative that crime ravages Federal Hill.
Local business owners often use this soundbite to justify leaving. The influx of nightlife patrons leaving behind detritus and exhibiting anti-social behavior does make the commercial hub unwelcoming for many.
A placemaking project can strengthen community connections and sense of pride.
Imagine if this intersection had playful, eye-catching seating installed in front of a vibrantly painted backdrop. Perhaps there is chalkboard paint with playful questions posed or even shelving for mementos.
How likely would you be to linger, start a conversation with another person, and explore the rest of main street?
L. Rose Creative 
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