Funds will help construct a new trail bridge over the Patapsco River to connect existing trails within Patapsco Valley State Park. Maryland DNR photo
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources recently awarded more than $7 million in grant funding for state and local projects thanks to federal funding from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
These grants will help state, county, and municipal governments enhance outdoor recreation through the renovation of existing facilities and the development of new amenities tailored to meet Marylanders’ needs.
Established by Congress in 1964, the LWCF fulfills a bipartisan commitment to safeguard our natural areas, water resources and cultural heritage, and to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans. Each year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources administers LWCF funds to assist state and local government in acquiring parkland and developing recreational amenities.
The following projects were awarded grants:
Allegany County
Willowbrook Outdoor Wellness Center Phase II
$988,000
This project will create new outdoor recreational amenities for park visitors, including three new athletic fields, a restroom and concessions building, walking trails, a playground, parking lot, and other park furnishings.
Baltimore County
Oak Road Park Improvements
$500,000
Baltimore County will improve Oak Road Park by replacing its fishing pier, adding a kayak launch, and constructing a pavilion. A paved drive with additional parking and an ADA-compliant path will provide access to these new and improved amenities.
Town of Berlin
Heron Park Skate Park Development
$487,500
A new skate park will be constructed to serve skaters of all ages and abilities. This project includes final design, site work and preparation, and construction of a concrete skate park with features like ramps, grind rails, a bowl, and plaza.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Patapsco Valley State Park – McKeldin Trail Bridge Construction
$1,887,078
A new trail bridge over the Patapsco River will connect existing trails to enable access between the McKeldin and Woodstock Areas of Patapsco Valley State Park.
Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, Montgomery Parks
Wheaton Forest Local Park Redevelopment
$1.3 million
Wheaton Forest Local Park will be redeveloped with new ADA-accessible pathways to neighboring communities, parking lot resurfacing, construction of an upgraded picnic shelter with restrooms and a drinking fountain, basketball court lighting, and construction of an adult fitness area and soccer court. Other amenities including bicycle parking, a playground communication board, and fencing will be added as well.
City of Rockville
RedGate Park Phase II Development
$1.5 million
This project will reconfigure, replace, and repair approximately 1-2 miles of paths/trails, including ADA-accessible paths to featured amenities. Two pedestrian bridges will be replaced, and benches and educational signage will be added along the paths. A boardwalk and deck overlook will be constructed for visitors to the existing pond.
Sample design for a replacement splash pad at Nicolet Park in St. Mary’s County. Photo courtesy of St. Mary’s County
St. Mary’s County
Nicolet Park Splash Pad Replacement
$350,000
St. Mary’s County will replace a popular but aging splash pad at Nicolet Park. Project elements will consist of demolition/removal of the existing equipment and concrete, electrical work, and installation of the new equipment including a shade structure.
