MIDDLE RIVER, MD—Forsite Development, a coal plant remediation company, has entered into an agreement with Baltimore County for the acquisition of portions of the former Charles P. Crane generating station in Middle River. This transaction will help to preserve the area’s natural resources and provide a place for county residents to enjoy.

The 153-acre site is being purchased by Baltimore County for $1 million. The county plans to use Maryland Program Open Space funding to support the acquisition. The state’s program provides financial and technical assistance to local jurisdictions for the acquisition, development, and enhancement of parks.

“I am proud of the ways in which our administration is preserving cherished open space and creating new parks and recreational opportunities – a core component of our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for all Baltimore County residents,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “I applaud Councilman Marks and the Bowleys Quarters Improvement Association for their advocacy on behalf of this historic waterfront property along Seneca Creek, which we believe can and should be enjoyed by the community for generations to come.”

The former coal plant has been closed since 2018 and was demolished in 2022. The site is being cleaned up in coordination with the Maryland Department of Environment. Forsite Development has also been actively remediating the environmental impact of the site.

“Forsite Development specializes in remediating, repurposing and redeveloping Industrial Real Estate including Coal-Fired Power Plants. During any redevelopment, we strive to find the highest and brightest use for the facility,” said Forsite Chief Operating Officer Ryan Ford. “I would like to acknowledge the local communities and Councilman David Marks for their willingness to discuss the future use of the Charles P. Crane facility for its redevelopment as a park and a future, low-traffic use. I also would like to thank the Olszewski administration for its hard work and support of this transaction that will provide for the property to transform from a coal-fired power plant to that of preserved, waterfront open-space to be enjoyed by generations of Baltimore County residents and infrastructure that will contribute to the renewable energy goals of Baltimore County.”

The agreement for the acquisition of the former coal plant is expected to be finalized in the coming months. Once finalized, the details of the transaction, including the total purchase price, will be announced.

The acquisition of the former C.P. Crane will help Baltimore County to reach its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030.

“I would like to thank the Olszewski administration for moving forward with this critical land acquisition in Baltimore County, and I would like to acknowledge all our elected officials and community leaders for their support,” said Councilman David Marks. “This will not only preserve one of the most beautiful waterfront regions on the Eastside, but will lighten potential traffic and other activity along Eastern Avenue.”

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Forsite Development, Inc.