Page 102 - Rukert - 100th Anniversary

BELOW: The Baltimore Industrial Group (BIG) was established by prominent public
and private business organizations in the Baltimore metropolitan region to advocate for industry and maritime operations. Its members spent countless hours lobbying Baltimore's Mayor and City Council in support of the MIZOD plan.
involvement in Warehouse Administration and Vessel Operations.
In August of 2004, the Baltimore City Council approved the Maritime Industrial Zoning Overlay District (MIZOD). The MIZOD plan demarcated finite deep water areas in industrial districts, including Canton, and reserved them for maritime use until 2014. The MIZOD preserved deep-water maritime properties with rail and highway access
in order to support maritime commerce and ensure intermodal freight movement.
The need to protect Baltimore’s maritime zones followed the real estate boom and push to redevelop
waterfront industrial properties for commercial use. The MIZOD prohibited new non-port related busi- nesses like hotels and restaurants on the waterfront. President John Coulter and other port advocates, especially members of the Baltimore Industrial Group, spent countless hours lobbying Baltimore’s Mayor and City Council in support of the MIZOD plan. Passage of the MIZOD was welcome news for the entire port community, including Rukert Terminals, a company determined to hold its position on the waterfront.
The MIZOD spurred investment in maritime infrastructure, saved jobs, and re-affirmed Baltimore’s commitment to international maritime trade.
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