Mike Hankin Believes a Swimmable Baltimore Harbor Is No Longer Just a Dream
BALTIMORE — A dream that once sounded far-fetched — people swimming in Baltimore’s harbor — may soon become a regular reality. Local businessman and philanthropist Mike Hankin believes the city is closer than ever to offering safe, public swim zones in the iconic harbor.
Hankin, who has spent over 15 years championing the cause, launched the Healthy Harbor Initiative in 2010 through the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore. His goal was bold: make the Inner Harbor swimmable within a decade. While the original timeline may have been optimistic, today’s results are undeniable — from returning river otters to scheduled swim events like Harbor Splash.
A Changing Harbor Landscape
For decades, Baltimore’s harbor struggled with pollution from industrial runoff and sewage discharges. But recent years have seen a transformation. Herons, kayakers, and even swimmers are returning, signaling improving water quality and shifting public perception.
The Harbor Splash event, now entering its second year, serves as a public milestone for these efforts. “We needed to get people to shift from thinking it can never happen to realizing it can be managed — just like in cities such as Chicago, San Francisco, and Paris,” Hankin told The Baltimore Banner.
From Skepticism to Support
Hankin recalls an early meeting in 2010 where he challenged colleagues to write down the year they thought the harbor could become swimmable. Predictions ranged from 2015 to 2050, but the consensus settled around 2020.
While that specific target wasn’t met, Hankin says it was important to pick a date that didn’t feel too distant or discouraging. Today, thanks to consistent testing and advocacy, the harbor is often safe for recreational activities — excluding days following heavy rain.
“I want to see the harbor used recreationally every day,” Hankin said. “I want to see people kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing — and yes, swimming, too.”
Swimmable Zones May Be Just Two Years Away
Though people already swim occasionally during events, Hankin envisions designated, roped-off areas for regular use — similar to those found on Lake Michigan or San Francisco’s Marina District. “We’re not quite there yet,” he admitted, “but I think we can figure it out in the next two years.”
Much of the progress depends on improved cooperation between city agencies like Rec and Parks and the Health Department. Harmonizing water quality testing from groups like Healthy Harbor, Blue Water Baltimore, and the Department of Public Works will be key.
The goal is a centralized system that tests for bacteria, vibrio, and other indicators — and posts daily updates on swim safety by 10 a.m.
Balancing Safety and Progress
While some environmental groups remain cautious — especially following rainstorms when bacteria levels spike — Hankin believes transparency is the way forward.
“Everyone agrees there are clean days and risky days,” he said. “What we need is a clear system that informs people when it’s safe. Then it’s up to them to decide.”
Comparisons are also being drawn to Paris, where officials recently reopened parts of the Seine River to public swimming for the first time in a century. Hankin sees Baltimore as a leader in this global movement.
Looking Ahead
With increasing public interest and environmental awareness, Hankin is optimistic. “We’ve made incredible strides, but we’re not done,” he said. “I think what we’ve accomplished is amazing — and we just need to take that next step.”
Even if weather forces the cancellation of scheduled swim events, he sees spontaneous swimming days — based on real-time water safety — as the future.
“I’d love to wake up, see the sun, and say: ‘It hasn’t rained. Let’s swim tomorrow,’” he said with a smile.
What do you think — would you swim in your city’s harbor if the water was certified safe? Share your thoughts with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com!