West Towson Park Expansion: Input meeting recap

Last week the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) held a public input meeting about the expansion of West Towson Park. This meeting was the first in a longer process that will ensure that community needs are met with the park expansion.

Baltimore County purchased 604 Central Av at the southeast corner of the park. They have secured funding for renovating the playground and demolishing the house. However, budget for the full Park expansion has yet to be secured.

During this preliminary meeting, which saw around 40 residents in attendance, BCRP provided a brief presentation which included a mockup of potential park improvements. These mock ups are a starting point, but helped the attendees understand the initial vision for the park. BCRP reiterated their desire to collect as much input as possible about the space.

Initial mock ups for West Towson Park expansion.

The plan as outlined includes:

• Expanding the current playground and upgrading the equipment and somehow preserving the dinosaur theme

• Preserving the mature trees in Park and newly secured lot (see “Ex. Tree (Save)” in the mock up)

• New Pergola and a new Bocce court

• More parking

Our board President, Ben Aylesworth, kicked off the public comments by thanking BCRP for investing on this important local amenity, sharing the results of our neighborhood survey, and sharing concerns raised by neighbors about the expansion.

The conversation then shifted to very vocal support for both pick-up soccer facilities and pickleball. Several additional suggestions emerged during the discussion, including:

• Adding a sidewalk along Central Ave

• Installing restrooms for families, specifically for small children

• Enhancing green space rather than opting for hard surfaces

• Ensuring accessible playground surfaces and equipment

• Maintaining safety at the vacant house prior to its demolition

• Preserving the beloved dinosaur theme on the playground

Interestingly, while the mockup included a bocce court, it did not resonate with those present, highlighting the community's preference for more active recreational options. Also participants shared the feedback that parking was not a pressing concern for most residents given the ample parking on Central Ave most of the time.

As we continue to engage with BCRP, we encourage all residents to share their thoughts and ideas. Your feedback is vital in shaping the future of our park. We will continue to draw your attention to opportunities to share you feedback. BCRP also requested any specific comment be directed to capitalprojects-rp@baltimorecountymd.gov.

The next steps outlines include starting to firm up the plans based on budget, more detailed feasibility planning, and your feedback.