BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — A new aviation-themed recreation center will open in Baltimore County, offering activities for all ages.
On Wednesday morning, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, the Department of Recreation and Parks, and state and local officials celebrated the opening of the new Middle River Recreation Activity Center.
Located near Glenmar Elementary School, the 15,000-square-foot facility provides social and wellness opportunities for residents of all ages.
The facility offers programs on the subject of flight and aviation.
“Every community deserves safe, fun, high-quality recreational opportunities that encourage our residents to play, compete and connect with one another,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “The new Middle River RAC will be a community gathering place that celebrates the area’s rich history and cultural pride with activities and opportunities that engage residents of all ages.”
The leisure centre also has numerous indoor leisure facilities and spaces including:
- A spacious double gymnasium with pull-out wall and basketball hoops;
- Stage, cinema screen and sound system;
- Six activity and multi-purpose rooms that support a wide range of programs and activities;
- A newly renovated multi-purpose outdoor space.
The $11.8 million facility was built with funds from a $500,000 state grant, $1 million in federal ARPA funding, $1.725 million from Project Open Space and $8.8 million from Baltimore County, according to county officials.
“The Middle River RAC Center will be a game-changer for these neighborhoods, creating a community center with activities for all ages, but especially for children who need productive programs,” said Baltimore County Councilmember Mike Ertel.
“This center will be an anchor point for recreational programs and community use in an area where we are working to strengthen neighborhoods,” said Baltimore County Councilman David Marks. “The theme also pays homage to the aviation history that has made Middle River such an important part of our state’s history.”
“This new Middle River RAC represents our commitment to creating not only functional, but inviting and engaging recreational spaces that serve the community,” said Bob Smith, director of the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks. “Our goal is for our new facilities to be exciting destinations for our communities, reflect the neighborhoods in which they are located, and provide residents with a new level of programs and activities. We want to thank County Executive Olszewski and our local, state, and federal partners for their investment in our communities and their support in making this project a reality.”
The new Middle River RAC will join the county’s existing RAC locations in Cockeysville, Dundalk, Hillendale, Lansdowne, Mars Estates, Scotts Branch, Shady Spring, Winfield and Woodmoor.
The district says a facility will soon open in Rosedale.
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