At next week’s City Council meeting, we will consider sending an important letter to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) and Prince George’s County leadership as they finalize the FY27 budget.

This is something we do every year—but it’s more than just a routine step. It’s our opportunity to make sure College Park’s priorities are heard and reflected in County-level investments.

Our residents rely heavily on M-NCPPC facilities—our parks, trails, and open spaces are not just amenities, they are part of everyday life. Whether it’s walking or biking on the Paint Branch Trail, visiting neighborhood parks, or participating in community programs, these shared spaces play a critical role in our quality of life.

Supporting Major Investments Already Underway

First, we want to acknowledge and support some major investments already in motion.

One of the biggest is the North College Park Community Center, a long-anticipated project that is now moving forward. This 14,000-square-foot facility is expected to bring new services and energy to a key part of our city. The City has already committed $1.5 million toward this project, and we’re excited to see it advance into design and construction.

We also expressed appreciation for ongoing work—like the Old Calvert pedestrian bridge study and improvements at Cherry Hill Park—that are already making a difference for our residents.

Focusing on Practical, High-Impact Improvements

In addition to large projects, our letter focuses on something equally important: practical, everyday improvements that make our parks and trails safer, more accessible, and usable year-round.

1. Snow and Ice Removal on the Paint Branch Trail
The Paint Branch Trail is one of the most heavily used corridors in our city—not just for recreation, but for daily travel. Students, residents, and workers rely on it to get around.

But during the winter, the lack of consistent snow and ice removal can make the trail unusable for days. That’s not just inconvenient—it creates real safety and access challenges.

We are asking the County to establish and fund a regular winter maintenance plan for the College Park segment of the trail, similar to other high-use corridors.

2. Trolley Trail Safety Improvements
We’ve heard concerns from residents about unauthorized motorized vehicles—like scooters and delivery vehicles—using the Trolley Trail.

This creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. Enforcement alone isn’t enough.

We’re requesting a design-based solution: evaluating access points and installing features like bollards or barriers that prevent vehicle entry while maintaining accessibility.

3. Year-Round Access at Acredale Community Park
Acredale Park is a well-used neighborhood space, especially for families and seniors. But the restroom is closed during colder months because it isn’t winterized.

We are asking for funding to upgrade the facility so it can remain open year-round—making the park more accessible and usable in all seasons.

4. Water Fountain at the Paint Branch Trail (ParkRun Area)
College Park hosts a very active ParkRun community that brings people together every week.

Despite the heavy use, there’s no convenient access to drinking water in that area.

A simple water fountain—with a bottle-fill station—would go a long way in improving safety, comfort, and overall experience for residents and visitors alike.

College Park Parkrun

Why This Matters

These requests may seem small compared to large capital projects—but they have a big impact on daily life.

They improve safety.
They expand access.
They make our public spaces work better for everyone—year-round.

And importantly, they support equity by ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities can fully use and enjoy our parks and trails.

Moving Forward Together

We value our strong partnership with M-NCPPC and Prince George’s County. Many of the things we enjoy in College Park—from trails to recreation programs—are the result of that collaboration.

This letter is about continuing that partnership and making sure College Park’s needs remain front and center as decisions are made.

I look forward to working together to move these priorities forward—and to delivering real improvements that our residents will see and feel in their daily lives.