The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be distributing more than $12 million in grant funding from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for state and local outdoor recreation projects.
Money will go toward acquiring new park land, renovating existing facilities and developing new amenities tailored to meet Marylanders’ needs, according to officials.
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LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 to fulfill a bipartisan commitment to safeguard natural areas, water resources and cultural heritage as well as to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans.
Each year, Maryland DNR hands out LWCF funds to help state and local government in buying parkland and developing recreational amenities.
Among this year’s recipients, the Eastern Baltimore Linear Park acquisition in Baltimore and Hill Street Skate Park replacement in received funding through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership, a type of LWCF grant that supports projects in high population areas with pressing community needs.
Projects awarded grants include:
Baltimore City – Eastern Baltimore Linear Park acquisition ($1.375 million): Land formerly used for railroad and utilities will be acquired to create a new park. In the future, a multi-use trail will be constructed, creating new access to greenspace in eastern Baltimore and enhancing connectivity for active transportation.
Baltimore City – Middle Branch Shoreline Trail, Segment 1 ($1.5 million): An ADA-accessible shared-use trail and picnic overlook will be built along the shoreline in Baltimore City. The trail will provide a safe location for walking and cycling and connect residents to other recreational amenities at Middle Branch and Reedbird Parks.
City of Brunswick – Brunswick Sports Complex expansion Phase II ($906,414): A playground as well as pathways, pickleball courts, and playing field amenities will be constructed at the Brunswick Sports Complex. This will benefit local sports leagues, as well as residents looking for additional ways to get outside.
City of Frederick – Hill Street Skate Park replacement ($1 million): The popular, but outdated skate park at Hill Street Park will be replaced with weather-resistant concrete and improved features, including pipes, rails, boxes and ledges. Signage, benches, bleachers, shade and lighting will further enhance visitors’ experience.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources – Patapsco Valley State Park comfort stations and bathhouse replacement ($3 million): Two comfort stations at the McKeldin Day-Use Area will be replaced and two bathhouses will be constructed at the Hollofield Campground. Electricity will be added to additional campsites, making it easier for people to stay in one of Maryland’s most visited state parks.
Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission – Gunner’s Lake Park development ($1.5 million): Several existing amenities including a pavilion, playground, and athletic fields will be reconfigured and improved, while a newly constructed walking track and adult fitness area will provide additional opportunities to recreate. Enhanced pathways to neighborhoods will make it even easier to access this park.
City of Rockville – RedGate Park development ($1.5 million): In the first phase of a major redevelopment of a former golf course, new pathways and meadow areas will be constructed. The addition of park benches, picnic tables and educational signs will provide spots to rest and learn about the surrounding environment.
St. Mary’s County – Playground replacement at Cecil and St. Clements Shores Parks ($350,000): Playgrounds will be replaced at two popular parks. Swings, climbing structures and slides, as well as rubber safety surfacing and multisensory elements like musical play features will ensure a fun visit for all.
Wicomico County – Pirate’s Wharf Phase II ($1.0105 million): Recreating on the Wicomico River will get a lot easier with the construction of a new boat ramp with parking, fishing pier and observation decks, and a soft launch for kayaks and canoes. New trails will help all visitors reach these spots for a day on the water.
Baltimore City will receive a total of $2.875 million from LWCF.