Mark remembers how the committee originally wanted to bring back “Olde Elkton” and restore it to its former glory. While these goals were commendable, there was a need for a more formal step-by-step planning process. The plan was completed and resulted in the recommendation to establish an organization that became Elkton Alliance, Inc. The first accomplishment of the organization along with assistance from Senator Walter Baker was the renovations to the Bridge Street bridge, which was later named in his honor. New Welcome to Elkton “The Gateway to the Bay” signs were placed at all entryways into Elkton. 

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It did not take long for the original creation of the organization to begin paying off. Grants were applied for from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and the Neighborhood Business Works to continue the revitalization of downtown. With the help of then Chairman of the Board, William F. Burkley, the Elkton Alliance received over $12 million dollars for the Main Street Streetscape program. At the time, it was the second-largest funded streetscape project to date and remains a project that forever changed the landscape of Elkton’s downtown. 

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In 2000, the Elkton Alliance, Inc. merged with the Greater Elkton Chamber of Commerce and was known as the Elkton Chamber & Alliance transitioning to a 501(c)6. In June of 2003 the Town of Elkton received its Maryland Main Street Designation charging Elkton Alliance, Inc. to run the program for the town. In June 2006, Elkton Alliance, Inc. received its Arts & Entertainment District designation and began managing these efforts for the Town of Elkton as well. The organization was, and continues to be housed, out of the Elkton Visitors Center and welcomes daily visitors that come to Elkton.