Under Armour CEO Reveals Plans For Port Covington Transformation

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A run down industrial area on the Baltimore waterfront is set for a major transformation.

Under Armour is spending billions to build a new destination neighborhood in Port Covington. Now we're getting a first look at the project.

Meghan McCorkell has more on the impact.

Those plans were revealed Thursday. They include a major overhaul of a neighborhood some in the city call a void.

More than 200 acres along the Baltimore waterfront -- now run down and industrial -- are set to transform into a waterfront destination, thanks to Baltimore-based Under Armour.

"We are going to make this anchor the foundation and the place where we're putting the flag in the ground that says this is our headquarters and this is our hometown," said Kevin Plank, Under Armour CEO.

Seen from I-95, Kevin Plank calls Port Covington Baltimore's front porch. Now his development company is pitching a massive makeover, including offices, homes stores and restaurants, as well as 40 acres of parks.

"I really think it speaks volumes about the future of our city," said Eric Costello, Baltimore City Council.

Under Armour's already converted an old Sam's Club into new offices, and an old bus garage now houses 12 companies.

Plans include both light rail and water taxi stops.

"It has the potential to really transform the area," said James Alston, Westport.

For neighbors in nearby Westport, this could be a game changer.

"It will also be great to shop somewhere close by and go to a restaurant or just hang out on the new, improved waterfront area," said Keisha Allen, Westport Neighbors Association.

The new business means new jobs.

"Hopefully, they can get jobs there, some of the unemployed can get jobs, and it will be a working community like it was when I was a little girl," said Deborah Guest, Westport.

Port Covington is not the only investment Under Armour is making. Construction on the new hotel at Fells Point Rec Pier has been underway for nearly a year.

The luxury hotel is expected to open this fall.

The Port Covington project is much more long-term, with estimated completion in about 15 to 20 years.

The plans also include a new performing arts center and stables for Baltimore City's police horses.