By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com
Baltimore County officials gathered on Aug. 7 to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the new Middle River Recreation Activity Center (RAC). The 15,000 square-foot facility houses a full-sized gymnasium, exterior multipurpose court, meeting and activity rooms, stage and movie screens.
The Middle River RAC is the first in a slate of new parks and recreation centers coming to Baltimore County this year.
“We’re here because we know that every community deserves to have fun, safe and high-quality recreational opportunities that allow our residents to play, compete and connect with each other,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “We know that recreational facilities are athletic spaces and community hubs that make our neighborhoods happier and healthier.”
Under Olszewski’s administration, Baltimore County has executed a six-year investment of $220 in new parks, park acquisitions and enhancements, facility upgrades and recreational programming.
In the next year, the county will have delivered nine new RACs. Aside from the Middle River facility, the new Hazelwood Skate Park will open in Eastern Baltimore County, as well as a new Sparrows Point Park.
“This RAC is another important step in our commitment to offering the most expansive recreational, art, health and wellness programs for residents in every community in addition to offering those more traditional athletic and afterschool programming needs for our children,” said Olszewski.
The development of the Middle River RAC was financed by a $500,000 grant from the state of Maryland, $1.725 million from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Project Open Space and $8 million from Baltimore County.
Beyond the center’s amenities, it boasts an aeronautical theme inspired by Baltimore County’s history of aviation. Martin State Airport, which started out as an aircraft company in 1929, sits just over three miles away.
“It’s important to note that this center is just a stone’s throw away from neighborhood streets, like Compass Road and Fuselage Avenue, all pointing to the history and importance of the aeronautical history in this Eastside community,” said Bob Smith, director of the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks. “What’s also important is the center’s location is on Community Drive, pointing to a future of it being a hub for this community.”
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