Baltimore, October 10, 2025
News Summary
In Baltimore, residents of Wyman Park and Remington are opposing the proposed Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Institute by Johns Hopkins University. They express concerns over a potential waiver that could weaken stormwater protections during construction, risking local watersheds and restoration efforts for Stony Run. Despite the project’s promise of economic benefits and job creation, community members worry about environmental impacts and construction disruptions. JHU has proposed enhancements to stormwater management in response to these concerns, but many residents remain apprehensive.
Baltimore Residents Oppose Johns Hopkins University’s New AI Institute Over Environmental Concerns and Project Size
Two communities in Baltimore, Wyman Park and Remington, are voicing strong opposition to the new Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Institute (DSAI) proposed by Johns Hopkins University (JHU). Residents are particularly concerned about a waiver the university is seeking that could potentially weaken stormwater protections during the construction phase of this extensive project.
Community members argue that the DSAI initiative threatens millions of dollars in taxpayer-funded restoration efforts and could harm the local watershed. Hillary Gonzalez, the creator of the BMoreAgainstDSAI campaign, expressed that stormwater runoff is a significant environmental risk that could undermine substantial environmental progress made in the area.
Baltimore City has already invested over $10 million to restore Stony Run, a key waterway, with residents worried that the DSAI construction could jeopardize these efforts. Ongoing flooding issues in the communities have heightened these concerns, as has the emotional toll on the residents and the anticipated impact on local green spaces.
Furthermore, residents are raising alarms regarding potential chemical contamination stemming from nearby construction activities, such as those related to the Agora Building. In reaction to these community worries, JHU has constructed a fence around the DSAI site to better manage stormwater runoff, following a city inspection.
The city of Baltimore is currently accepting public comments on the DSAI project until Friday, October 10 at 4:30 PM. In response to community feedback, a representative from JHU stated that the university is enhancing stormwater management infrastructure to mitigate the risks associated with increased rainfall. These upgrades include a new stormwater line with 20 percent more capacity and the installation of a 500,000-gallon rainwater cistern to further assist with water management.
The DSAI project is critical to JHU’s vision of transforming Baltimore into a tech hub, with estimates suggesting that it could create approximately 11,000 jobs and generate an economic impact of $1.6 billion for the local economy. This development includes the construction of two buildings located near Wyman Park Drive and Remington Avenue, expected to reach completion by 2029.
In an effort to address public concerns about the scale of the construction, JHU has reduced the size of the DSAI facility by 30 percent, adjusting it to approximately 476,572 square feet. The construction plan also includes an initiative to plant 300 new trees to compensate for those that will be removed during the project.
Residents have expressed worry about the impact of construction on their homes, leading JHU to offer structural surveys before construction begins. Additionally, the university has employed environmental consultants to oversee and safeguard Stony Run Creek and local wildlife throughout the project’s duration.
Moreover, 14 community meetings have been convened over the past two years to engage residents and address their concerns. JHU aims for the DSAI construction to significantly contribute to advancements in healthcare, science, and technology. However, residents have also requested that the university take measures to minimize construction noise and vehicle traffic in their neighborhoods.
FAQ
What is the main concern of Baltimore residents regarding the DSAI project?
Residents are primarily concerned about potential weakening of stormwater protections and the threat to local watersheds due to the construction of the DSAI project.
What has Baltimore City invested in restoring Stony Run?
Baltimore City has invested over $10 million into the restoration of Stony Run.
What are the anticipated economic impacts of the DSAI project?
The DSAI project is expected to create approximately 11,000 jobs and generate an economic impact of $1.6 billion for Baltimore.
When is the deadline for public comments on the DSAI project?
The deadline for public comments is Friday, October 10 at 4:30 PM.
How has JHU responded to environmental concerns?
JHU has proposed enhancements to stormwater management infrastructure and engaged environmental consultants to monitor the project’s impact on Stony Run Creek.
Key Features of the DSAI Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wyman Park Drive and Remington Avenue |
| Size Reduction | Facility size reduced by 30%, now approximately 476,572 square feet |
| Job Creation | Approximately 11,000 jobs |
| Economic Impact | Estimated $1.6 billion |
| Environmental Restoration | 300 new trees to be planted |
| Stormwater Management | New stormwater line with 20% increased capacity and a 500,000-gallon rainwater cistern |
| Completion Date | Expected by 2029 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Johns Hopkins DSAI Development
- Wikipedia: Environmental Impact Statement
- The Banner: Johns Hopkins AI Center
- Google Search: Johns Hopkins environmental impact
- Baltimore Fishbowl: Structural Surveys Offered by JHU
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stormwater Management
- WMAR2 News: Controversy Over JHU AI Institute
- Google News: Johns Hopkins DSAI
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