Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Cross Street Market

Baltimore

MD

USA

Contributed by 
Timothy Hyland
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
March 19, 2002
December 14, 2017

A city-block long market running along Cross Street between the neighborhood's two major avenues

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

The Cross Street Market is the absolute center of Baltimore's Federal Hill neighborhood. A city-block long market running along Cross Street between the neighborhood's two major avenues -S. Charles Street and Light Street - the market is where Federal Hill and South Baltimore residents buy their produce, meat, seafood, flowers, cigars and wine. It's where they get their greasy food and fresh oysters. And come Happy Hour, it's also where they drink -- and socialize. The market is one of Baltimore's premier urban spaces. Set in the middle of the thriving Federal Hill neighborhood, it serves as an anchor for the restaurants, bars, boutiques, coffee shops and stores that surround it. And it's also a lot of fun -- it's where everyone gets together.

Access & Linkages

It's accessible by foot for all Federal Hill residents. Sitting between the neighborhood's major streets, it's in the middle of everything.

Comfort & Image

There is no decor to speak of. It is essentially an open-air market with a roof. But the atmosphere is wonderful -- the crowds and vendors are diverse, it's almost perpetually crowded with people, and the place always feels lively. It seems safe and comfortable -- elderly women and young children feel comfortable walking through. It's also kept clean.

Uses & Activities

The space is used constantly, because it has so many functions. Residents use the market for groceries. Tourists stop by for food. You can get lunch there. And Happy Hour is very popular. All kinds of people can be seen there. It's a very diverse environment.

Sociability

It's a great meeting spot for people, especially young folks on their way out for the evening. The people who go there are the people who live in the community. Everyone uses it.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

The Cross Street Market is one of three (I believe) similar markets in Baltimore.

Related Links & Sources

Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market
Cross Street Market

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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