CHAP Commission - 2026-02-10
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The CHAP Commission voted unanimously to approve landmark designation for Saint Peter's Cemetery at 2310 Lorraine Street and 1301 Moreland Avenue in West Baltimore. The 175-year-old Catholic cemetery, which served both white and Black congregations and contains burials of significant figures including civil rights activist Philip Berrigan, will receive historic protections despite opposition from the Archdiocese of Baltimore. The commission modified the designation language and directed staff to explore a memorandum of understanding with the archdiocese and community groups regarding oversight expectations.
Key Decisions (1)
Landmark Designation for Saint Peter's Cemetery
Council bill 26-0147 designating Saint Peter's Cemetery at 2310 Lorraine Street and 1301 Moreland Avenue as a Baltimore City landmark was approved. The cemetery, established in 1851, meets criteria 1, 2, and 3 for landmark designation based on its association with significant historical events, significant persons (Monsignor Edward McColgan, Philip Berrigan), and distinctive cemetery design characteristics. The Archdiocese of Baltimore opposed the designation citing religious freedom concerns and practical issues with CHAP oversight of family-owned headstones.
Development Activity (1)
Warwick Arms Apartments (now Rosemont Gardens/Midtown At Coppin Heights)
164-unit lower income apartment development constructed on 3.5 acres sold by the archdiocese in 1968, with option to buy additional 1.5 acres
Market Signals (2)
Sentiment
The Archdiocese of Baltimore is undergoing a 'seek the city' process to reduce its footprint within Baltimore City, with plans finalized and sent to Rome for approval, though Saint Peter's Cemetery is not included in properties being divested.
Other
Historic landmark designation provides access to grants, matching funds, and technical assistance for cemetery maintenance and restoration that would otherwise be unavailable.