For years, a housing-and-retail complex northwest of downtown Baltimore was so crime-plagued it was dubbed the 'Murder Mall.' Today, Ashleigh Choi Cross and John Cross are living at that location in a brand-new $400,000 townhouse. In December, the married couple bought the three-bedroom home in Reservoir Square, a burgeoning development in a neighborhood that has long struggled to reverse a 1970s-era decline. A key selling point for the pair: Baltimore’s historic drop in violent crime.
The Crosses represent a growing number of people betting on a Baltimore comeback. After decades of population loss and economic stagnation, the city is seeing signs of renewal, driven in part by significant reductions in violent crime. According to data from the Baltimore Police Department, homicides fell by 20% in 2023 compared to the previous year, marking the lowest level in nearly a decade. This decline has spurred interest in neighborhoods that were once considered too dangerous for investment.
Reservoir Square, located in the Northwest Baltimore area, is a prime example. The development includes townhouses and apartments, with prices ranging from $300,000 to over $500,000. The community is part of a larger effort to revitalize the area around the former Mondawmin Mall, which had become synonymous with crime and decay. The mall, now rebranded as the 'Murder Mall' by locals, has been redeveloped into a mixed-use complex with retail, dining, and housing.
The Crosses, both professionals in their 30s, were drawn to the area by the affordability and potential for appreciation. 'We saw the crime stats going down and felt it was a good time to invest,' said Ashleigh Choi Cross. 'The neighborhood has a lot of potential, and we want to be part of that change.' Their decision is supported by city initiatives aimed at reducing crime and promoting development, including increased police patrols and community engagement programs.
However, challenges remain. Baltimore still struggles with poverty, unemployment, and systemic inequality. Critics argue that development in areas like Reservoir Square could lead to gentrification, displacing long-time residents. Yet proponents believe that new investment can create jobs and improve services for everyone. The success of these efforts will depend on sustained crime reduction and inclusive growth policies.
For now, the Crosses are optimistic. They enjoy their new home and the sense of community emerging in Reservoir Square. 'It’s exciting to be part of something new,' said John Cross. 'We hope others will see what we see and join us.'
This story was originally published at citybiz.
