The determinants of renovation and redevelopment in Baltimore City

Like many historical industrial cities, population in Baltimore City has declined dramatically in recent years. Despite losing nearly half its population since 1950, some neighbourhoods in Baltimore City are revitalizing. Using a probit model, this study examines the probability of a parcel receiving a renovation building permit given certain characteristics of individual parcels and the surrounding neighbourhood and location in spatial policy areas. Results reveal renovation varies systematically with characteristics of the property and the neighbourhoods in which they are located. Many policy areas positively impact the probability of renovation but the magnitude of impact is slight. Results support the claim by previous studies that structural characteristics are the strongest predictors of renovation.