Week in review: 6/16/11

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Convention center project continues

Overshadowed by plans for an expansion and a new hotel and arena, a $24.4 million renovation of the Baltimore Convention Center continues. The upgrade includes features to make it more energy- and water-efficient. Interior changes include new carpets and paint, and improved restrooms.

Baltimore money for study

The Maryland Stadium Authority wants Baltimore to help pay for a feasibility study on a proposed expanded convention center, new arena and hotel for downtown Baltimore. The authority voted Tuesday to conduct the study on the condition that the city makes a large contribution toward its cost.

Phillips leaving Harborplace

Phillips Seafood Restaurant, an original tenant in Baltimore’s Harborplace, will not renew its lease and plans to close Sept. 30. Two other Phillips locations in Harborplace — Phillips Seafood Express and Phillips Seafood Buffet — will close the same day. The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. announced Wednesday that it will move into the space next year.

Liability suit narrowed

A U.S. District Court judge in Baltimore has applied Virginia law in dismissing strict-liability claims against the maker of forceps that broke inside an Anne Arundel County woman and left there while she underwent a hysterectomy.

Redskins consider moving

The Washington Redskins are considering moving the headquarters of their football team from Ashburn, Va., to Prince George’s County. County officials sent a letter to the Maryland Stadium Authority asking for a feasibility study.

Lawsuit alleges racism

The former owners of the defunct Cibo Bar & Grill, in Owings Mills, have filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against David S. Brown Enterprises Ltd., claiming the Baltimore-area landlord drove them out of business as black customers increasingly frequented the restaurant.

Boy Scouts clear of ADA

The Boy Scouts of America chapter covering Washington’s suburbs need not provide accommodations for its disabled young members under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a U.S. District Court judge in Baltimore has ruled. The mother of a deaf 13-year-old had brought the lawsuit.

Recovering unclaimed cash

An agreement released Tuesday between the John Hancock Cos. and Maryland could lead to residents recovering an estimated $4 million in insurance and annuity payments that were never paid out.

Big week for conventions

Two large conventions and more than 6,000 visitors were expected in Baltimore starting Friday. Officials say the week will be the city’s best chance ever to boost its tourism reputation.