The five-story factory, once a bustling hub for as many as 3,400 workers, closed its doors and relocated in 1999; it had been a fixture on the property for the last 65 years.

"The implosion of the Bata Building brings an end to an era, but it is an important next step in Harford County's future and the rebirth of the Route 40 Corridor," says Harford County executive James M. Harkins. "Route 40 has been a high priority of my administration. The vision and expertise that the Clark Turner/Manekin team has applied to this project has paid big dividends to our community."

One office building has already been constructed, and another is expected to deliver in January. Officials have projected that, once it reaches completion, Waters Edge will produce an annual $2 million in revenues for the county.