CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott on Thursday named Timothy Keane, a veteran city planner who helped shape Charleston’s urban landscape, as the city’s new planning director.
Keane, a nationally recognized planner with decades of experience, was unanimously recommended by the Baltimore Planning Commission following a months-long search. He previously led planning departments in Charleston, South Carolina; Atlanta; Boise, Idaho; and Calgary, Canada.
“Tim will lead the Planning Department at a critical moment for Baltimore,” Scott said in a statement. “He brings experience, fresh ideas, and a real passion for cities and their people.”
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Keane spent more than 16 years in Charleston, including as director of the city’s Department of Planning, Preservation and Sustainability. He oversaw economic development in the historic downtown and helped guide preservation efforts during a period of rapid growth.
He returned to Charleston in 2024 to assist with the city’s first major government reorganization since the 1970s, experience that city officials said demonstrated his ability to navigate complex reforms.
“Charleston shaped who I am as a planner,” Keane said Thursday. “That work deepened my belief that planning must serve people and build stronger communities.”
After leaving Charleston, Keane spent nearly seven years as Atlanta’s planning commissioner, where he spearheaded the Atlanta City Design plan, overhauled the city’s permitting system, and launched an anti-displacement fund for low-income homeowners. In Calgary, he helped guide a citywide rezoning to expand affordable housing, and in Boise he led passage of the city’s first new zoning code since 1966.
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As Baltimore’s planning director, Keane will oversee urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting and the city’s offices for sustainability, food policy and historic preservation. His appointment requires City Council confirmation.
Keane holds degrees in architecture and planning from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and has taught at the College of Charleston.
He will succeed Chris Ryer, who announced his retirement earlier this year after decades in city government.
A spokeswoman for the city of Charleston says Keane’s last day on the job will be Friday, Sept. 26.
