(BALTIMORE – March 20, 2025) – Today marked a powerful resurgence of energy and attention on Sandtown, signaling a long-overdue commitment to revitalization and community engagement. This renewed focus, spearheaded by key leaders at the state and city levels, is breathing new life into a neighborhood that has too often been overlooked.
At the state level, Senator Antonio Hayes has been a masterful force in assisting Tracey Malone and directing over $28 million toward the redevelopment of West North Avenue, a vital corridor that runs through Sandtown. This investment is more than just numbers on a page—it represents a tangible commitment to the people of West Baltimore, who are eternally grateful for this effort.
From the city’s leadership, Councilman James Torrence is championing efforts to establish a new recreation center to replace the former Lillian S. Jones Recreation Center, a long-missed community hub. His work, in partnership with Baltimore City Recreation and Parks, is a testament to what can be achieved when government agencies and community leaders collaborate with purpose. At the helm of Parks & Recs, Executive Director Reginald Moore has proven to be a dedicated and effective partner, ensuring that Sandtown’s needs are met with action and resources.
I must be honest—today, I witnessed one of the most spectacular displays of community concern in Sandtown. The City of Baltimore, under the leadership of Mayor Brandon Scott, alongside BUILD (Baltimoreans United in Leadership Development) and passionate community leaders, demonstrated a shared determination to restore Sandtown to the thriving neighborhood it should be. What stood out most, however, was the voice of Sandtown’s children. According to Sandtown Collective Executive Director Tracey Malone, these young residents articulated their concerns directly to City Administrator Faith Leach, demanding safer places to play and cleaner, healthier streets.
City Administrator Leach responded with immediate, decisive action on issues like illegal dumping and abandoned vehicles—actions reminiscent of former Mayor Kurt Schmoke, the last city leader to take such swift and meaningful steps in Sandtown. For over 25 years, Sandtown has suffered from neglect, receiving only temporary fixes instead of substantial change. But today, I saw something different. I saw a community no longer content with bandaid solutions. I saw leaders who are serious about transforming Sandtown, not just for now but for generations to come.
This moment is particularly significant as we mark ten years since the Freddie Gray Unrest. In the wake of that tragedy, many promises were made to Sandtown—but few were kept. Now, with dedicated advocates like Tracey Malone leading the charge and committed local and state government partners, we may finally be on the path to real and lasting progress.
This is Sandtown’s time. The momentum is here. With continued focus, collaboration, and accountability, we can ensure that this community receives the resources, respect, and renewal it has long deserved.
