DMS Development today announced a $60 million mixed-use development on the southern rim of downtown Towson.

To be named “101 YORK,” the complex at York Rd. and Burke Ave just north of Towson University will include about 200 apartments and 10,500 square feet of retail fronting York Rd.

The apartments are aimed at university students and are expected to be completed by the end of 2016, according to the developer.

Blighted Towson?

“I applaud DMS Development’s interest and investment in this blighted part of Towson,” said Councilman David Marks, who represents the area and promised “robust public input” regarding the developer’s proposal.

“101 YORK will bring new residents, shops and services to liven the southern entrance to downtown Towson,” said David Schlachman, head of DMS, a Towson-based developer.

The area between York Rd., Burke Ave. and Towsontown Blvd. is known as “Towson Triangle” and is considered one of the last big undeveloped areas of the county seat.

DMS has been purchasing properties in the triangle, most recently two businesses favored by college students – Pizans Pizza and York Liquors – both of which may relocate.

Or Booming Towson?

According to Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, downtown Towson is experiencing a boom, with more than 1,500 luxury apartments built over the last four years.

At the Towson traffic circle, the once-vacant 12-story Towson City Center has been fully leased by Caves Valley Partners, with corporate headquarters for MileOne, Remedi Senior Care and Towson University’s Institute for Well-Being.

An $85 million Towson Square entertainment center, to be anchored by the 15-screen Cinemark movie theater and eight restaurants, began in January.

An LA Fitness center at Towson Commons is also under construction, adding a “Hollywood touch” to downtown, according to a press release from Kamenetz’s office today.