Board of Public Works Approves $2.14 Million for New Park in Gaithersburg

Program Open Space Provides Funds to Convert Former Office Site

The Board of Public Works today unanimously approved a Maryland Department of Natural Resources item to commit $2.14 million in Program Open Space funds toward developing a local park at the former Consumer Product Safety Commission site in Gaithersburg.

The city plans to improve the 9.54-acre property to meet the demands of a growing, diverse population. The park will include open space plus a community garden, covered picnic pavilions, a nature play space, outdoor fitness equipment, a paved walking trail and a tot lot.

Gaithersburg acquired the land through the federal Lands to Parks Program. The total $5 million project will also include infrastructure upgrades and use city funds and a state bond bill.

“This planned conversion of unused office and industrial space into urban parkland is an ideal example of what Program Open Space is designed to accomplish,” Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio said. “We are pleased to support this long-term commitment to conserving our natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for the residents of Gaithersburg.”

“The City of Gaithersburg is pleased to move forward with this project,” said Michele Potter, Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture for the City of Gaithersburg. “Through a public planning process, the park was designed by an ad-hoc committee, comprised of residents and approved by our mayor and city council. An open house was held on-site for adjacent neighbors to view conceptual drawings and tour the property. We hope to begin construction in Fiscal Year 2020 and will announce a groundbreaking ceremony and keep all informed of our progress.”

Program Open Space Local provides both financial and technical assistance to local subdivisions for the acquisition, development and planning of public open space and recreational areas. More than 6,200 projects have been assisted through Program Open Space Local grants.