Downtown Partnership Staff Honored at Orioles Game, President Shelonda Stokes Threw First Pitch

Downtown Partnership Staff Honored at Orioles Game, President Shelonda Stokes Threw First Pitch

Baltimore, MD – Sept. 18, 2024 –

The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) was honored to be recognized for its contributions to creating a safer, more vibrant Downtown Baltimore at the Orioles game on Tuesday, September 17. The DPOB team cheered on the O’s at Camden Yards as President Shelonda Stokes threw out the first pitch; all enjoyed an evening celebrating the thriving Baltimore community.

“My team and I are incredibly honored to be recognized for our commitment to making Baltimore a vibrant city where people feel proud to work, visit and call home,” says Stokes. “We are proud to be a part of the diverse community that makes Baltimore unique with its prosperous businesses, world-class dining scene and winning sports teams – there’s truly something here for everyone,” says Stokes.

For more than 40 years, Downtown Partnership has been dedicated to building a better Baltimore through its extensive projects and initiatives. DPOB’s programs, such as Clean Sweep Ambassadors (CSAs), Park Stewards, Downtown Baltimore Guides and homeless outreach services have played a vital role in keeping the city clean, safe and beautiful. DPOB’s strategic partnerships with government agencies, local businesses and residents have helped inject growth into businesses of all sizes in Baltimore’s Central Business District.

“Being honored at the O’s game in the iconic Camden Yards is so special to me and every one of our team members– some of whom have never been to an O’s game, but work just a block from here. We’re grateful for this moment, and the bright future of our Downtown Entertainment District,” Stokes added.

From 2018 to 2028, Downtown Baltimore neighborhoods are set to realize $6.9 billion of investment, including infrastructure improvement, sports complex upgrades, housing and other real estate projects. In addition to this historic investment, 11 new digital billboards on buildings in Downtown Baltimore promote vitality, arts and culture, positioning the neighborhood for exponential growth.

Each year, Downtown Partnership leads the charge on annual Restaurant Weeks, Downtown Discovery Days, Spring Break Programming and various pop-up events at Center Plaza. The organization is celebrated for its ongoing revitalization projects, including the Downtown BOOST Program (Black Owned and Operated Storefront Tenancy Program) and its latest plans revealed for the Central Business District, transforming the Liberty Dog Run into a community green space.