McKeldin Fountain, located at Pratt and Light streets in Baltimore, Maryland, was a symbol of the city's renaissance and the vision of former Mayor Theodore McKeldin. Designed by Philadelphia architect Thomas Todd, the fountain was a prime example of Brutalist architecture, featuring concrete prisms and walkways. Despite objections from the public art commission, the fountain was demolished by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, who plans to replace it with a landscaped plaza to serve as a more welcoming gateway to the city.
The demolition of McKeldin Fountain has sparked controversy within the arts and design community, as the public had limited input in the decision-making process. While the city's Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation did not intervene due to the structure's age, the American Institute of Architects and other groups have called for a design competition and secure funding before proceeding with a permanent replacement. In the meantime, a temporary park designed by Philadelphia landscape architect David Rubin will occupy the site until further plans are finalized.
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