New design plans unveiled for East Columbia Library Park in Howard County

Sherry Greenfield, Howard County Times, Columbia, Md.
·2 min read
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Apr. 29—Construction of the East Columbia Library Park in Howard County is moving forward nearly 10 years after its initial design was unveiled.

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball on Thursday announced a new design for the park that includes a playground, pavilion, two grass fields and a walking path.

"In listening to and working with members of the Owen Brown community, we have collaborated every step of the way to design a space that truly resonates with this diverse community," Ball stated in a news release. "Collectively, we have created a vibrant, local park that beckons individuals of all ages and abilities to come together, while embracing nature and recreation and crafting new experiences."

Construction is slated to begin next spring and be completed in spring 2026.

Last October, Ball announced the purchase of the 16.5-acre East Columbia Library Park property adjacent to the Howard County Library System's East Columbia branch on Cradlerock Way in Columbia. The Department of Recreation and Parks had been maintaining the property since 1992.

The property was purchased by the county for $415,000 with Program Open Space funding provided by the state.

Lake Elkhorn Middle School sits adjacent to the property, and includes youth baseball and softball fields, and a youth cricket pitch.

Nick Mooneyhan, director of the county's Department of Recreation and Parks, stated in the news release that feedback from the community convinced county officials to change designs for the East Columbia Library Park.

"When we heard that the wants and needs for this future park had changed for our Village of Owen Brown neighbors, we went back to the planners and architects to ensure that this community would enjoy and gather at East Columbia Library Park," Mooneyhan said.

Michael Golibersuch, board chairman for the Village of Owen Brown, thanked the county for listening to the requests of the community.

"Parks are a community necessity because they motivate and inspire us to live active lifestyles, and strengthen and increase community engagement," Mae Beale, a member of the board stated in the news release. "My hope for the Columbia Library Park ... [is that it will] continue to promote awareness and education and a sense of community."