Baltimore, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott has appointed Timothy Keane as the new Director of the Department of Planning. Keane, with decades of planning experience from various cities, is expected to lead during a crucial time for Baltimore. His extensive background includes significant roles in Charleston, Atlanta, Boise, and Calgary, where he implemented urban development strategies and preserved community identity. This appointment comes as Baltimore faces various planning challenges and aims to enhance urban and community improvements.
Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott has appointed Timothy Keane as the new Director of the Department of Planning, following an extensive nationwide search that concluded with unanimous support from the Baltimore Planning Commission. Keane, a highly regarded city planner with decades of experience, is expected to lead the department during a critical time for the city.
Keane brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously held leadership positions in various metropolitan planning departments across North America. These include Charleston, South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; and Calgary, Canada. His appointment is particularly significant as Baltimore seeks to enhance urban development strategies.
Mayor Scott expressed confidence in Keane’s ability to bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the Planning Department. The Mayor emphasized that Keane’s extensive experience aligns well with the city’s current needs, as Baltimore embarks on important urban and community improvements.
Keane’s professional background includes over 16 years in Charleston, where he served as the director of the city’s Department of Planning, Preservation, and Sustainability. During his tenure in Charleston, he was instrumental in overseeing key initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth while preserving the unique character of the historic downtown area. His leadership was crucial as the city faced rapid development, showcasing his capacity to manage growth and maintain community identity.
In addition to his contributions in Charleston, Keane played a pivotal role as the planning commissioner in Atlanta for nearly seven years. He spearheaded the Atlanta City Design plan, an ambitious initiative focused on comprehensive urban design. His tenure in Atlanta also saw a complete overhaul of the city’s permitting process and the establishment of an anti-displacement fund to help protect low-income homeowners from gentrification.
Prior to his time in Atlanta, Keane had a unique impact in Calgary, where he led a citywide rezoning project aimed at expanding access to affordable housing. In Boise, he was responsible for implementing the city’s first new zoning code since 1966, reflecting his commitment to contemporary urban planning practices that adapt to evolving community needs.
As the Director of Planning in Baltimore, Keane will oversee a range of responsibilities, including urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting, sustainability initiatives, food policy, and historic preservation efforts. His skill set and leadership style are expected to be instrumental as Baltimore navigates its planning challenges moving forward.
Keane’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Baltimore City Council. His impressive educational background comprises degrees in architecture and planning from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, complemented by roles as a Fellow at the University of Miami School of Architecture and teaching experience at the College of Charleston.
Keane will succeed Chris Ryer, who recently announced his retirement after serving in city government for a significant period. Ryer’s departure marks the end of an era, and Keane’s appointment signals a new chapter for the Department of Planning.
This transition comes at a time when Baltimore is faced with numerous urban development challenges, and the city government is keen to implement effective strategies to enhance the living environment for its residents.
Key Features of Timothy Keane’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Timothy Keane |
| Position | Director of the Department of Planning, Baltimore |
| Previous Roles | Planning Director in Charleston, Planning Commissioner in Atlanta, Denver City Planner |
| Key Achievements | Oversaw economic development, preserved historic areas, established anti-displacement measures |
| Education | Degrees in architecture and planning from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte |
FAQ
Who is Timothy Keane?
Timothy Keane is the newly appointed Director of the Department of Planning in Baltimore, with a distinguished background in urban planning across several major cities.
What are Keane’s primary responsibilities as the new Planning Director?
Keane will oversee urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting, sustainability initiatives, food policy, and historic preservation within Baltimore.
What is the significance of his appointment?
Keane’s appointment is seen as pivotal for Baltimore as the city seeks to enhance its urban development strategies and navigate its planning challenges effectively.
What prepared Timothy Keane for this role?
Keane’s extensive experience in planning departments across various cities, along with his educational credentials and leadership in urban development projects, prepared him well for this role.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC News: Baltimore Nabs Timothy Keane as New City Planning Director
- Google Search: Timothy Keane Baltimore
- Hoodline: Timothy Keane Appointed as New Planning Director
- Wikipedia: Urban Planning
- Saporta Report: Legendary Planner Tim Keane Moving Back to Charleston
- Google News: Timothy Keane Planning Director
- Architectural Digest: Atlanta Planning Commissioner’s Call to Action
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
