Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore Appoints Dan Taylor as President

Taylor brings over a decade of leadership and experience in urban planning, economic development, and waterfront revitalization to organization celebrating its 20th anniversary this year

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore today announced that its Board of Directors has approved Dan Taylor as the organization’s next President, succeeding Laurie Schwartz following her planned retirement on June 30, 2025.

Taylor, who currently serves as Vice President of Business and Neighborhood Development at the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), has been with the organization for nearly 12 years. During his tenure, he has served as the organizational lead on transformative projects such as the redevelopment of Harborplace, improvements to the Maryland Science Center, the development of nine acres of new public parks at Harbor Point, and the creation of outdoor spaces along the Harbor East Promenade among many others.

This leadership transition coincides with the Waterfront Partnership’s 20th anniversary in 2025, a milestone that reflects two decades of impact on Baltimore’s waterfront and the communities it serves. Under Schwartz’s visionary leadership, the organization has been a catalyst for transformative projects like Rash Field Park, the Healthy Harbor Initiative, and the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, creating spaces that are vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming to all.

“Dan’s deep knowledge of Baltimore’s waterfront and proven leadership make him the right person to carry forward the Waterfront Partnership’s mission,” said Tim O’Donald, Chairman of the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore Board. “The Board is confident that under his leadership, the organization will continue building on the incredible momentum of the past 20 years.”

“I am deeply honored to step into this role and continue the incredible work that the Waterfront Partnership has led over the past 20 years,” said Taylor. “Baltimore’s waterfront is one of the city’s most iconic and beloved assets, and I look forward to continuing the organization’s work to make it a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving space for everyone.”

Taylor has also served on the Waterfront Partnership’s Board of Directors since 2021 and has served as a member of ULI Baltimore, the Maryland Economic Development Association, and the Impact Hub Baltimore Advisory Committee, and for years has shared his expertise with students at Johns Hopkins University, Morgan State University and the University of Maryland, reflecting his ongoing commitment to the city’s communities.

Schwartz, who has worked closely with Taylor on projects like Rash Field and in his role as a board member, expressed her confidence in his leadership: “Having worked alongside Dan for years, I know firsthand the passion, creativity, and dedication he brings to his work. Dan understands the importance of our mission and shares a deep commitment to Baltimore’s waterfront and its future. I look forward to seeing how the organization continues to grow under his leadership.”

Taylor holds a Master’s of Community Planning from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the University of Michigan. He and his family are proud residents of Baltimore City.

“Dan has been instrumental in many of BDC’s successes, leading transformative projects like the redevelopment of key Downtown Westside sites and Rash Field, as well as helping to launch the recent Commercial Districts Assessment Program,” said Colin Tarbert, President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC). “He is a dedicated public servant, and I’m thrilled he will continue serving the city in his new role, where his expertise will further drive positive change for Baltimore’s iconic waterfront.”

Taylor will officially assume join the organization as Incoming President in May, overlapping with Laurie Schwartz to ensure a seamless transition. He will then transition to President following Schwartz’s retirement on June 30th.

Waterfront Partnership is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and promoting the waterfront district’s parks and public spaces. The organization creates welcoming programs, events and recreational experiences while working toward a healthy harbor and is committed to fostering connections among diverse communities to ensure equitable access to our blue and green spaces. For more information, visit waterfrontpartnership.org.