Baltimore, Md. (July 27, 2007)—Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith joined Councilman Joseph Bartenfelder and representatives from the Marshy Point Nature Center to dedicate site improvements at Marshy Point Park. The new features include a canoe launch facility and storage building, a parking lot expansion, an overlook deck and walking trails with a pedestrian bridge.
These much anticipated improvements were made possible with the help of $1.43 million in Program Open Space funds, $725,000 in local funds, $250,000 in state bonds, and $10,000 in state waterway improvement funds. The total cost of the project is $2.4 million.
The project’s completion provides additional recreational and educational facilities and opportunities for Baltimore County citizens and students, enhance non-motorized water access, contribute to the park’s status as a Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network site and will continue the implementation of the Eastern Regional Greenway Trail.
In addition to the canoe launch facility, trails now include a boardwalk overlook and Minnow Branch pedestrian bridge that spans the narrow tributary of Dundee Creek. The bridge and trail are essential components of a greenway network that passes through the park and links a series of County lands with the state’s Gunpowder State Park Hammerman area.
“Through this expansion, we have broadened the Marshy Point Nature Center’s ability to serve the citizens of Baltimore County. The new canoe launch will enhance non-motorized access to the pristine waterways that are such an important part of this community,” said County Executive Smith.
After the ribbon cutting of the canoe facility, several members of the Chesapeake Campers were the first to take advantage of the new improvements as they carried their canoes down the dock and set out on the water.
“The Marshy Point Nature Center already does so much for the environment and the people of Baltimore County,” said Councilman Bartenfelder. “These improvements will not only enhance the educational and recreational opportunities that are already here, but they will also support the protection of our waterfront environment.”
The area is now open for you to bring your own canoe or kayak to launch from the dock to explore the marshes around the bay. The park is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, please contact Marshy Point Park at 410-887-2817.
Revised August 9, 2007
You Can Now Launch Your Own Canoe or Kayak
Courthouse 