New Standards Proposed for 'Downtown' Perry Hall

is seeking to change the face of Perry Hall, starting with its so-called "downtown" area.

Marks introduced legislation on Monday that would make new development in Perry Hall's subject to the Baltimore County Design Review Panel, his office announced on Tuesday morning.

A community meeting to discuss the legislation is planned for 5 p.m. on July 11 at at 's library. A logo for the "Downtown" area, designed by Patch blogger and community volunteer , is included in the gallery of this article.

"I am most concerned about larger areas where redevelopment will occur, such as the property, the stores across the street along the 8830 block of Belair Road, and the area east of the . Any redevelopment projects will be with us for 30 or 40 years, so let's do them right," Marks said in a news release.

"Existing businesses that want to modify their appearance or make minor changes will not be affected by this bill," he added.

The revitalization zone, , includes all of the . It extends along Belair Road, from Blakeley Avenue in the south to Minte Drive in the north. It also includes Joppa Road, between Seven Courts Drive and Belair Road, as well as Ebenezer Road, from Belair Road to Yvonne Avenue.

Businesses in the zone are already eligible for special financing, free design services and other forms of county assistance.

The Design Review Panel currently evaluates and sets standards for new development in commercial districts in Arbutus, Catonsville, Essex, Pikesville and Towson. Nine design professionals sit on the panel, including architects, landscape architects and engineers, according to Marks.

Marks also plans to organize regular clean-ups of weeds and trash at Belair, Joppa and Ebenezer roads—as part of an ongoing effort to improve the area's appearance.

"Hopefully, these improvements, along with the incentives already available through the commercial revitalization program, will enhance Downtown Perry Hall," he stated.

What would you like to see in Perry Hall's downtown? Tell us in the comments.