AoL is expanding it’s hyperlocal Patch.com to the Baltimore area (for starters,)  with what the Baltimore Business Journal says will be more than a dozen editions in nearby towns.   Local community newspapers and dailies should be concerned.

As local dailies cut back news staff and coverage Patch has been just one of the new Baltimore-area publications to crop up. Other startups include Investigative Voice, Baltimore Brew, Bmore Media, and MarylandReporter.

“To me it’s exciting because there’s a lot of areas of Baltimore that don’t get as much attention as they used to,” newly-hired editor Doug Donovan told the BBJ. “We all know how much traditional media is suffering.” Donovan used to report for the Baltimore Sun.

AOL has invested $50 million in Patch.com, and U.S. expansion is certainly not stopping with Baltimore.  “Nationwide” Patch.com advertising and editorial positions are now posted.

Patch.com Baltimore monetization through advertising will include banner ads, and self-service online ad placement. PPC rates will be $15 per 1000 views.