Dear Friends,
Last week, we submitted the County’s quarterly American Rescue Plan (ARP) Project and Expenditure Report to the U.S. Department of Treasury. This influx of ARP funding will be vital for Howard County’s continued recovery from the pandemic.
Over the past six months, we have engaged our community and gathered important feedback on how to best utilize our federal funding to have the greatest impact and help Howard County emerge from the pandemic stronger than before. To date, Howard County has expended over $23.5 million of its initial $31.6 million ARP allocation, focusing its spending on education, health care and front-line workers, housing, public safety and business and industry support.
Read more about the report here. |
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Quaker Mill Dry Flood Mitigation Pond Updates
The Quaker Mill Dry Flood Mitigation pond is a critical Ellicott City Safe and Sound project that, when complete, will capture approximately 3.3 million gallons of water and convey it safely to the Patapsco River once any danger of flooding has passed. This project is one of several projects currently under construction or in the design process that are aimed at keeping Ellicott City safe.
Please join me in thanking Governor Larry Hogan, Katie Fry Hester, Maryland Senate D9, Courtney Watson - State Delegate, our our entire state delegation for their partnership in helping to keep Ellicott City Safe and Sound. Watch this video to see all the progress on the Quaker Mill Pond thus far.
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Honoring Chief Ralston
Please join me in extending deepest sympathies to the family and colleagues of Deputy Chief Craig Ralston of the Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department. Chief Ralston was also a Master Firefighter with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA). Unfortunately, while in performance of his duties with MWAA Chief Ralston contracted COVID and passed away due to complications of the virus.
A member of the ECVFD since 2002 he rose through the ranks and received many commendations. One of his greatest loves at Station 2 was Annabelle, the antique engine there. He also loved playing the department’s Santa, accompanied by Mrs. Claus, his beloved wife EMS Sergeant Kat Ralston. Please keep his wife, family, and everyone at ECVFD in your prayers.
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COVID-19 Update
According to the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), as of today, February 7, Howard County’s positivity rate is 6% and our 7-day moving average case rate per 100k is 30. While we are seeing a decline in the COVID-19 positivity rate, hospitalizations and cases remain high around the state. There are currently 29 COVID-19 patients in both the ICU and Acute Care units at Howard County General Hospital. While Howard County community transmission level remains high or substantial, indoor masking in public places in recommended.
Howard County has high vaccination rates with 86 % of our residents 12+ fully vaccinated. Approximately 43% of our eligible residents 18+ have not yet received their booster shot. Again, note that due to a data breach that occurred at MDH more than 6 weeks ago, booster data for 5-17 year olds are not regularly provided nor are second doses for 5-11 year olds. Please get boosted if you have not yet received a booster shot. Vaccination, including boosters, work by significantly reducing serious illness, hospitalization, and death.
We are awaiting more information on vaccine availability for children under the age of 5.
We have the power to stop the spread the COVID-19. We can only do this through increased vaccination, getting boosted, and continuing to practice the mitigation strategies we have all become accustomed to: stay home if you are sick, get tested, wear a high-quality mask, and please get vaccinated and boosted if you haven’t already. Find a vaccine near you at vaccine.howardcountymd.gov. |
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Get Vaccinated and Boosted!
With Omicron’s virulence, the unvaccinated are at greater risk for hospitalization. Studies show that vaccinated individuals are still at risk of being infected with the Omicron variant. However, vaccines and boosters are working by significantly reducing hospitalization and even death.
Eligible residents may now receive a booster shot five months after their first two initial doses. If you have not received a booster yet, now's the time.
For more information, and to register for an appointment, please click here.
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Black History Spotlight: Harriet Tubman School
This Black History Month, we recognize the Harriet Tubman Foundation for their ongoing work to preserve our history. Retaining this legacy of early African American education in Howard County is important history for future generations.
We have continued to invest in this this important historical treasure, which facilitates learning, including about our own communities past. The Harriet Tubman School will serve as a historic, educational and cultural space. Our investments over the years reflect our commitment to learning from our past and creating an even brighter future, full of more opportunity for all.
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Expanding Access to Cricket
Even in sports, our diversity is Howard County’s strength. Cricket’s popularity has boomed over the past several years in Howard County. In recent years, we have significantly invested in our cricket fields and opened our 6th pitch last week to meet the growing demand for fields and facilities.
We have some of the best sports fields and engagement in our state, and we look forward to expanding Howard County’s national reputation as the place to play cricket.
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Celebrating Our History
For over 40 years, the amazing African Art Museum of Maryland, founded in Columbia, has educated our county, state, and nation about African history and culture. It was an honor to join founder and visionary Doris Ligon and the dedicated Board to welcome the esteemed Delegation from Uganda during Black History Month.
Thank you to Kalabaro Kisakye, Uganda Broadcasting Corporation; Gloria Birunge, Ambassador Bridging the Gap; and Sonia Komugisha, Ms. Tourism of Uganda. Special thank you to our students at Long Reach High School for joining us and providing music. Together, we will continue to forge partnerships and honor the diversity upon which our community thrives.
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Free Masks and Testing Kits
The Little Free Pantry at the Town Center Community Association is a thoughtful amenity to ensure all our residents have access to the essential items. I was glad to join Joel Broida to provide free test kits and face coverings for our residents at this pantry. Through vital partnerships like these, we will ensure all our residents are safe for generations to come.
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Helping our Arts Community
The Howard County arts community is one of the most creative, prolific and diverse throughout our region and nation. We have a deep history and culture of supporting the arts in our community. The grants provided by Howard County Arts Council can help provide a bridge of support for our art community.
I encourage you to share this information with the artist in your life who may benefit from one of these grants! Learn more and apply here. |
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Creating Solar Energy
The solar project at our New Circuit Courthouse is now complete! This project is critical in moving the courthouse from a LEED Silver to a LEED Gold designation, and it is the first project to reach completion as part of our Power Purchase Agreement with CI Renewables.
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This project helps us achieve our goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 45% by 2030 and 100% by 2050. Together, we will ensure our environment is clean and sustainable for current and future generations. |
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Mental Health Resources
The last two years have been a difficult for many in our community, particularly for those who are struggling with isolation, depression, or a mental health condition. There are many available resources and services for those who are struggling. Please be sure to check in on one another and offer a helping hand.
I encourage residents to follow these tips to help during times of struggle and isolation.
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Complete Streets in Guilford
In August, we broke ground on a transformative Complete Streets project in Guilford, and we have come a long way since. We continue to prioritize the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders of all ages and abilities and drivers. These are critical and long overdue changes for the Guilford community. As you will see from this footage, 3,000 feet of new sidewalk, curb and gutter are being constructed.
Working with our community, after ten years, we are finally seeing a brand new traffic signal installed, and a brand new bus pad will provide comfort and shelter for residents. Thanks to our community and our government agencies for working together to keep residents safe and connected!
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Department of Community Resources and Services |
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Registration Now Open for 2022 Child Care Fair
Back by popular demand, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Children and Families (OCF) will host its annual Child Care Fair on Saturday, February 26th (NEW DATE) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the North Laurel Community Center; masks are required. While admission is FREE, attendees are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item or unopened pack of diapers or wipes to donate to the Howard County Food Bank.
This annual fair provides parents, guardians, grandparents and child care personnel with a “one stop shop” for information on child care, pre-school and summer programs, as well as access to early child care teachers and program directors. Representatives from OCF and community service organizations that offer programs and services to Howard County’s young children will be on hand to share resources and information. The event will also feature free information sessions on “How to Choose an Early Childhood Program” at 11:00 a.m., noon and 1:00 p.m.
Also, be sure to stop by the Child Care Fair registration table to obtain digital access to the 2022 Parent's Guide to Howard County.
Though not required, pre-registration is highly recommended so event organizers can contact attendees in case of inclement weather on the day of the event. For more information about the Fair, contact the OCF at 410-313-1940 or email children@howardcountymd.gov. To request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to participate, call at least one week in advance.
We hope to see you there!
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Call for Vendors for Child Care Fair
Registration is now open for vendors/exhibitors interested in participating in this year’s Child Care Fair on February 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the North Laurel Community Center. For 30 years, OCF has hosted this Fair to give Howard County parents the opportunity to learn about preschools, child care programs and community resources in one single location. Sold on a first come, first served basis, registration will continue until all 60 tables are sold. The cost to participate for for-profit organizations is $75 and the cost for non-profit, 501c3 organizations is $50 with coupon code: OCFNONPROFIT. To register to be a vendor/exhibitor at this year’s Fair, click HERE.
For questions and/or more information about being a vendor/exhibitor at our 2022 Child Care Fair, please contact Georgia Ferentinos at 410-313-1943 or gferentinos@howardcountymd.gov.
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Transformational Howard County Age Friendly Action Plan Approved by AARP
Age-Friendly communities foster independence and allow residents of all ages and abilities to have great access to our amenities and services. Recently, I announced that AARP has approved the Howard County Age-Friendly Action Plan. A transformational document and critical milestone to join the AARP Network of Age Friendly States and Communities, this plan includes 80 recommendations across eight domains that influence the health and quality of life of our residents. With AARP’s stamp of approval, we can move forward confidently over the next three years to work to ensure all recommendations can be implemented.
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Members Sought for Consumer Protection Advisory Board
In case you missed it, I am currently seeking applicants interested in serving on our Consumer Protection Advisory Board. At a time when it seems that scams are becoming more prevalent, it is vital that our residents are aware of these over-the-phone, email and social media style scams, just to name a few, to better protect themselves. As a member of our Consumer Protection Advisory Board, you’ll be working to do just that. Board member responsibilities include participating in community activities and advising the DCRS's Office of Consumer Protection and myself on policies, programs and practices that can improve consumer protection-related services in the county. If this is something that interests you, I encourage you to click HERE to learn more about the Board and how to apply. Please note, the DEADLINE to apply is this Friday, February 11th.
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Child Care Scholarship Virtual Town Hall
Child care providers, if you missed Saturday’s Child Care Scholarship Virtual Town Hall, DCRS’s Office of Children and Families says to have no fear. There will be a second virtual Town Hall event tomorrow, February 8th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by Maryland Family Network, Baltimore Child Care Coalition, Baltimore Child Care Resource Center, MSCCA, MSFCCA and SEIU Local 500, these organizations are looking to hear from local child care providers. This Town Hall event is a chance to share your experience and help make improvements to the Child Care Scholarship Program. For more information or to register for virtual Tuesday’s event, click HERE.
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Adopt a Hydrant
In an emergency, every second counts. Fire hydrants that are blocked, concealed or difficult to and/or your business is interested in helping ensure our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) has quick and easy access to the fire hydrant(s) in your neighborhood, consider adopting a hydrant today.
To adopt a hydrant or to learn more about this program, email DFRS to outreach@hcdfrs.org with your name, address, email and the tag number for the hydrant you’d like to adopt.
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Howard County Health Department |
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Request COVID-19 Vaccination Records
Misplaced you COVID-19 Vaccination Card? Never fear! You can easily request your vaccination records the Maryland Department of Health’s “Maryland MyIR” website. Maryland MyIR is a free website service that allows residents to view and print copies of their official vaccination records directly from ImmuNet, Maryland's immunization information system. ImmuNet is used by healthcare providers to securely maintain vaccination records for Maryland residents of all ages.
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Office of Human Resources |
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County’s Apprenticeship Program Now Accepting Applications
WE ARE HIRING! First announced in 2018, our Office of Human Resources is once again accepting applications for the County’s Apprenticeship Program, specifically for Apprentice/Electrician. A joint apprenticeship program registered with the Maryland Department of Labor, this four-year program provides participants the opportunity to earn 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and paid tuition to a trade school in exchange for a commitment to remain employed with Howard County Government for at least two years after completion of the program. Program participants are considered full-time County employees and are eligible for all the benefits.
To learn more and/or submit an application for the program, click HERE. Note, the application window will close at 11:59 p.m. on February 25, 2022.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity |
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“Everyday Racism”: Navigating Racial Microaggressions
Join our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) this Thursday, February 10th at noon for a talk on “Everyday Racism”: Navigating Racial Microaggressions. This Black History Month, join OHRE’s Community Outreach Supervisor Claudia Allen as she shares tips and tools on how to navigate racial microaggressions. And in case you are wondering what are racial microaggressions and how does one professionally respond to racial microaggressions in the workplace, well, you’ll just have to tune into OHRE’s Facebook page or the County’s YouTube channel on the 10th to find out.
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Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, this Month’s “Reading Human Rights” Discussion Group Book
Facilitated by OHRE and hosted by the Howard County Library System (HCLS), “Reading Human Rights” is a monthly book discussion group aimed at encouraging community dialogue on issues of race, displacement and religious bias. “Reading Human Rights” also aims to foster conversation on how different community’s approach human rights advocacy and community engagement. The discussion group introduces participants to a variety of books from varying genres. This month’s discuss group – set to meet virtually on February 23rd, HCLS and OHRE will be discussing Caste by Isabel Wilkerson in celebration of Black History Month. As spacing is limited, to reserve your virtual seat today for this month’s discuss group, click HERE.
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The Crown Act: Exploring Race, the Law, & Appearance Discrimination
OHRE invites you to close out Black History Month with a virtual webinar exploring how African Americans deal with illegal discrimination based on personal appearance, especially concerning their hair texture and style. This one-hour lunch and learn on February 24th will educate attendees on the history of Black hair and its importance to African American culture, expose the various kinds of discrimination African Americans face because of their hair and illuminate the protections offered to Howard County residents. Moderated by OHRE Administrator Yolanda Sonnier, this webinar promises to be informative and practical. Reserve your virtual seat today by clicking HERE.
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Department of Planning and Zoning |
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Design Advisory Panel Meeting
Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Design Advisory Panel (DAP) will hold a meeting this Wednesday, February 9th starting at 7:00 p.m. VIRTUALLY to hear the following item:
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Review of No. 22-05 – Lakefront Residential North, Columbia
To register in advance to participate in this meeting, click HERE. If you only want to listen to the meeting, call 1-650-479-3207 at the meeting time. When prompted, enter 2306 696 0923.
The DAP process encourages excellence in project architecture and site design to improve design compatibility with surrounding development, to promote revitalization and to enhance property values. You can use DPZ’s DAP interactive map to see which properties may be subject to DAP review. For DAP’s Rules of Procedure, click HERE. For questions and/or more information about DAP, contact the DPZ at 410-313-2350 or email dap@howardcountymd.gov.
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Cell Phone 3G Service to be Discontinued this Year, Some as Early as February
Howard County Police Department, in conjunction with the Maryland 9-1-1 Board, is warning residents who possess older cell phones with 3G service that their service may cease operating this year due to the retirement of 3G networks and support for phones using 3G service. This may also include devices that use 3G connectivity, such as some medical alert devices, tablets, smart watches and home security systems. The nation’s three major wireless carriers – AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, each announced they plan to discontinue 3G service in favor of 4G (LTE) and 5G service in 2022. According to the Federal Communication Commission’s website, AT&T will discontinue service in February, T-Mobile/Sprint will discontinue service between March and July, and Verizon will discontinue service at the end of 2022.
While most users of these services will be notified directly by their carrier if this discontinuation affects them, users of older phones used for 9-1-1 only purposes may not be notified if they do not have active service with the provider. This could be particularly concerning for domestic violence victims, the elderly community and some lower-income families who have older phones only capable of calling 9-1-1 in an emergency. Users of these older 9-1-1 only phones should be aware that they may not work after 3G service is discontinued.
Low-income individuals who are concerned that their 9-1-1 only phones may no longer be supported should consider applying for service through the federal Lifeline Program. Information about this program, particularly eligibility and participating providers, can be found online at www.lifelinesupport.org.
Additionally, if you or someone you know will be affected by this 3G service discontinuation, you may qualify for a Howard County Health Department’s FREE smartphone program, available to eligible foodstamp and Medicaid recipients. To learn more about this program, click HERE or call 410-313-7504 or 410-313-5845.
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Department of Public Works
Montevideo Road Relocation Project Public Meeting
Our Department of Public Works (DPW) will hold a public meeting on Thursday, February 24th (inclement weather date is Wednesday, March 2nd) from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Thomas Viaduct Middle School (masks are required), located at 7000 Banbury Drive in Hanover, to present plans for a road relocation project in Jessup.
DPW’s Transportation and Special Projects Division plans to complete the relocation of Montevideo Road at a site east of 7650 Port Capital Drive to 7286 Montevideo Road. The proposed work includes construction of a closed section roadway with one lane in each direction, along with a center turn lane, curb and gutter, and sidewalk on both sides of the roadway. The intersection of US 1 at existing Montevideo Road will be converted to a right-in/right-out configuration to and from northbound US 1. The existing traffic signal on US 1 at existing Montevideo Road will also be removed. Future access from southbound US 1 to Montevideo Road will be provided by a left turn at the traffic signal at Port Capital Drive. This project is expected to begin in summer 2022.
This informal meeting will include an overview of the design plans. County staff will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments.
Those unable to participate in this meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Abdul Akbari with DPW’s Transportation and Special Projects Division at 410-313-6146 or email aakbari@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Public Works - Construction Report
Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Columbia
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Thunder Hill Road Storm Drain Replacement – Project to repair a storm drain pipe near 5750 Thunder Hill Road. While two-way traffic is expected to be maintained at all times through the work zone, an occasional lane shift may be required during working hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be completed by February 11th.
Ellicott City
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Hudson Branch Sewer Stabilization (Capital Project S-6601) – Project to stabilize an exposed public sewer at a stream crossing located in a wooded area off Frederick Road adjacent to US 29. The project is not expected to impact the flow of traffic. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-February.
Marriottsville
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Marriottsville Road Water Main Installation (Capital Project W-8602) – Project to upgrade the water main along northbound Marriottsville Road between Albeth Road and both I-70 eastbound ramps. Flagging operations will be in place to direct traffic as needed and signs will be posted to alert residents and motorists of the construction, as occasional lane shifts can be expected during construction hours, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by early April.
To learn about Department of Public Works (DPW) projects currently underway, visit https://bit.ly/2V6K5B6. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.
If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.
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Department of Public Works Bureau of Environmental Services |
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Holiday Slide Schedule Not in Effect Week of Presidents’ Day
While Howard County Government offices will be CLOSED on Monday, February 21st in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday, there will be REGULAR Monday curbside trash, recycling and food scrap/yard trim collection on the 21st. The County’s holiday slide schedule will NOT be in effect the week of Presidents’ Day as the holiday is not one of the six holidays that affect curbside collection. Those six holidays are New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. To learn more about the County’s holiday slide schedule, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/holidayschedule.
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Curbside Yard Trim Collection Season is Over
REMINDER: The County's yard trim curbside collection season has ended until the season resumes on Monday, March 28th. However, this does NOT apply to those households who participate in our Bureau of Environmental Services "Feed the Green Bin" program. Residents participating in this program receive year-round yard trim collection as part of the County’s food scrap curbside collection program. To learn more about our food scrap collection program and if you are eligible, click HERE. For more information about the County's yard trim collection program, visit HERE.
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Special Household Hazardous Waste Days Scheduled for Early 2022
While the County's Bureau of Environmental Services' regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule has ended for the season (will resume the first Saturday of April), the Bureau will host three SPECIAL winter HHW collection days this winter at the Alpha Ridge Landfill. The first held previously this month, the other two dates are: Saturday, February 5th and Saturday, March 5th. On these days, County residents will be able to properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill.
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Business and Community Award Nominations Now Being Accepted
Calling all Howard County businesses, community groups and organizations, our Bureau of Environmental Services is now accepting nominations for its fourth annual “Business Recycling and Waste Reduction” and “Green Community Leadership” awards program. This annual awards programs recognizes businesses, community groups and organizations in Howard County that demonstrates efforts, projects or programs that help protect our natural environment and preserve its resources. Nomination forms are available online at www.workgreenhoward.org and are due (postmarked or delivered) by 5:00 p.m. this Friday, February 11th.
Help us recognize our community partners who are doing their part to reduce waste and support of our goal of creating a clean and sustainable environment. Note, businesses, community organizations and non-profits can self-nominate.
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Department of Public Works Bureau of Utilities |
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How to Keep Pipes from Freezing as Temperatures Dip
With Punxsutawney Phil predicting another five weeks of winter, the County’s Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Utilities is offering residents tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and potentially bursting when those outside temperatures dip below freezing.
Water pipes located in a crawlspace or on an outside wall are subjected to sub-freezing temperatures, as are pipes located in a garage, attic or any other unheated building. To help combat this problem and reduce the probability of your pipes freezing and bursting, the Bureau of Utilities recommends the following:
- Wrap or insulate exposed pipes susceptible to low temperatures.
- Utilize other devices, such as UL approved heat tape, to help keep pipes from freezing.
- Leave hot and cold water dripping the thickness of a pencil on nights when temperatures dip below 15°F.
- Some pipes, such as those located in cabinets or vanities, and situated against an outside wall may be insulated but may be likely to freeze. It is a good practice to leave cabinet/vanity doors open to allow heat in the room to keep pipes warm and prevent freezing.
The Bureau also suggests these simple steps to avoid a water leak and damage:
- Turn off inside water valve for any outside hose bib connections and open the outside hose bib to drain the line.
- Know where your home’s inside main water cutoff valve is and check that it is functional by hand. In case of a leak, this valve will turn off water flow coming into the home and thereby limit costly water damage.
- Seal any air leaks that allow icy blasts to reach pipes.
- For homes with crawl spaces, close outside air vents located in the foundation wall during extremely cold temperatures to keep exposed plumbing from freezing.
- Heating costs are driven by outside temperatures and home thermostat settings. It is a false economy to allow inside temperatures to fall below 55 degrees. This creates risk of frozen pipes and it increases energy consumption when trying to restore interior temperature.
- If you are going on an extended vacation, turn off your incoming water service valve, drain water lines from upper levels to lower level. Otherwise set your thermostat to at least 55°F or above.
If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame.
Residents are also reminded if you experience an issue with your water service or experience a sewage back-up in your home, call the County first to determine if there is a break in the water main or a blockage in the sewer main beyond your property. During regular business hours, residents are instructed to call the Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900. After hours and on the weekends, call Central Dispatch at 410-313-2929 which will then notify a county utility worker.
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Department of Recreation and Parks |
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Summer Camp Registration Now Open!
Online registration, mail-in, phone and walk-in registration for Howard County residents for Recreation and Parks' 2022 Summer Camp Guide is now open! To view the Summer Camp Guide and/or for the registration link, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/rap today
For non-Howard County residents, online registration for you begins this Wednesday, February 9th, with mail-in, phone and walk-in registration available the following day.
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Maple Sugaring and Syrup Tasting Event
Join Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center on February 26th and 27th for this family-friendly, deliciously sweet and sticky event about the art of maple sugaring, i.e., when the sap from trees is collected to make syrup. Participants will have the opportunity to hike around Robinson Nature Center’s property to explore tapped trees and partake in a cooking demonstration and syrup tasting. Preregistration is recommended for this sweetly popular event; to register, call 410-313-0400 or sign-up HERE. Cost is $7 for Robinson Nature Center members and $10 for general admission. Please note, this program is recommended for those three and older as it takes place along unsurfaced trails which are not stroller accessible.
If you are not able to join our Robinson Nature Center staff on the 26th or 27th, Recreation & Parks is also offering a take-home maple sugaring kit. This interactive kit includes video chats from a Nature Center naturalist about the tradition of maple sugaring and materials for a seasonal craft, themed scavenger hunt and a half-dozen cookies, maple-flavored icing and decorations for a family cookie-decorating activity. This kit is geared towards children age two to seven. To secure your “Take Nature Home: Maple Sugaring Season” kit today, click HERE. Cost is $55.00 per kit.
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Belmont Manor & Historic Park Wins WeddingWire 2022 Couples’ Choice Award®
CONGRATS to Recreation and Parks' Belmont Manor & Historic Park on once again being named a WeddingWire 2022 Couples’ Choice Award® winner. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, quality of service, responsiveness, professionalism and attention to detail offered day in and day out by our Department of Recreation & Parks’ and Belmont staff members, especially when assisting engaged couples with the planning on their wedding.
To read more about this announcement, click HERE.
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Active Transportation Open House
This Saturday, February 12th, join our Office of Transportation as it kicks off its second annual Active Transportation Open House (ATOH). Held virtually through 4:00 p.m., Friday, February 18th, this Open House will consists of three sections – discussions, a self-guided tour and online surveys, and will focus on biking, walking, micromobility and Complete Streets. The Open Hous will also include updates to the County’s BikeHoward projects, e-scooters and Complete Streets implementation activities.
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RTA Service Adjustments
This past Sunday, February 6th, the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA) implemented planned service adjustments affecting routes: 301, 403, 404, 405, 406 and 503. For details regarding these adjustments, please visit www.transitrta.com/february2022/. RTA Mobility Services are NOT affected by any of these adjustments
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