Merriweather Pavilion Safe From Columbia Development Deal

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Some of the biggest names in music have taken the stage at Merriweather Post Pavilion, but a development project in downtown Columbia put the future of the concert venue in limbo.

Concert-goers can stop worrying now. The developer has reached an agreement with the community to save the venue.

The pavilion ranks as one of the best outdoor concert venues in the country.

But despite praise by Billboard Magazine and Rolling Stone, the amphitheater was at risk of closing to make space for new development.

As part of a development deal, the Howard Hughes Corporation has handed over its ownership to the Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture commission, keeping the venue in the community.

"So that this non-profit can be running the future of Merriweather, to ensure it will be here for future generations," said Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman.

It's the final compromise in a 30-year plan to revitalize downtown Columbia. With $90 million for public infrastructure from the Howard County Council, the Merriweather district surrounding the pavilion will be re-done to be more walkable. The concern venue is also getting improvements, and the plan includes 900 units of affordable housing.

The Merriweather district is made up of 3 million square feet. The plan is to make it the center of culture and commerce for Howard County.

Phase one will include space for permanent parking, commercial offices, residential apartments and retail.

"Columbia is celebrating its first 50 years next year and Columbia is a fabulous place to live, and this really is about the next 50 years," says Greg Fitchitt, with the Howard Hughes Corporation.

Ian Kennedy, executive director of the Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture commission, launched the Save Merriweather campaign 14 years ago, refusing to cut his beard until reaching that goal.

"I feel great because I got to shave the beard, but mostly because this venue is now protected," he says.

The construction can only happen during the off season, so it will take some time to complete. Right now, 2020 is the target.

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