Transforming Community Parks: The Long Branch Parks Initiative Unveiled

Montgomery Parks Presents the Long Branch Parks Initiative Report

WHEATON, Md. – On September 19, 2024, Montgomery Parks unveiled the Long Branch Parks Initiative Report to the Montgomery Planning Board, emphasizing the project's scope and the proposed enhancements for the 10 parks in the Long Branch community. This initiative serves as a roadmap for future improvements and investments in parks within this historically underserved area.

The initiative began in 2022 to assess all 10 parks and ensure that the improvements align with the community’s desires and needs. The goal is to connect residents to safe and welcoming parks equipped with inviting amenities, events, and programs, while also linking habitats and environmental resources.

Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks, stated, “We worked closely with the Long Branch community to understand the needs of its diverse residents and incorporate feedback we heard during our extensive outreach efforts.” This engagement included bilingual outreach in English and Spanish, door-to-door canvassing, online surveys, intercept surveys at community events, and focus groups.

Montgomery County Council Vice President Kate Stewart expressed gratitude, stating, “Thank you to Montgomery Parks for the Long Branch Parks Initiative... I appreciate the holistic approach parks has taken to address the needed open, recreation, and conserved space for residents of all ages and backgrounds.”

Economic development coordinator Paul Grenier noted the positive transformation of spaces like Flower Avenue Urban Park and anticipated similar vibrancy for other parks through this initiative.

The Ten Parks Included in the Long Branch Parks Initiative:

• Long Branch Stream Valley Park (Units 1 and 2)
• Upper Long Branch Neighborhood Park
• Long Branch-Wayne Local Park
• Long Branch-Arliss Neighborhood Park
• Long Branch Local Park
• Flower Avenue Urban Park
• Long Branch-Garland Neighborhood Park
• Seek Lane Neighborhood Park
• New Hampshire Estates Neighborhood Park
• Quebec Terrace Neighborhood Park

For more details on the Long Branch Parks Initiative, including future enhancements for the parks, please read the full report.

About Montgomery Parks

Montgomery Parks manages over 37,000 acres of parkland, consisting of 419 parks. The department focuses on promoting physical activity, social connectivity, and environmental stewardship, particularly in diverse and urbanizing areas, targeting teens, working-age adults, and seniors. Montgomery Parks is part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), established in 1927 and recognized nationally for its high-quality parks and recreation services.