Edgewater Recreation Center Pickleball Courts: Anne Arundel County has announced plans to turn a former Giant Food grocery store into the new Edgewater Recreation Center. The project will feature a gymnasium, eight pickleball courts, and an indoor playground, with work set to begin on July 1. The estimated $11.5 million project aims to create a community hub for recreation and interaction.
Plans for the New Center
The county released a request for proposals on April 7 to transform the 5.39-acre property at 3130 Solomons Island Road. The space has been vacant since the supermarket moved several years ago.
A Halloween store has occupied the site in recent years. The county hopes to have a contractor selected by June 6 and plans for the project to start on July 1, with an expected completion by July 31.
The renovation will expand the building to 45,763 square feet, including an addition of nearly 750 square feet. The gymnasium will feature a basketball court with bleachers. Other key elements will include a dance studio, yoga room, and gaming area.
Features of the Center
One of the major features of the new center will be the eight pickleball courts. These courts will be part of the county’s push to offer more recreational opportunities. The indoor playground will be designed to accommodate up to 75 children, with equipment suited for various age groups.
In addition to the sports areas, the facility will include multipurpose rooms, party and meeting spaces, and a retractable stage in the gym. The space will be adaptable, with plans for possible batting cages and bungee or aerial classes in the pickleball area.
Sustainability Goals
The county is committed to making the center eco-friendly. The building is expected to meet the silver rating from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), a standard for green building practices.
The project is being developed with support from the Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, focusing on sustainable infrastructure. Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman emphasized the importance of these efforts, saying,
“Engaging with our Resilience Authority on these two projects will not only expedite their construction, but also ensure that they are done in a way that contributes to the environmental restoration of these sensitive sites.” – (Pittman)
“Our residents have asked for sustainable redevelopment of community spaces to promote health and wellness, and that’s what these projects deliver.” – (Pittman)
What’s Next for the Community
While features like a skate park and indoor pool were discussed, they were not included in the final plans. Instead, the county is exploring other locations for a skate park in the Edgewater area. The completion of this project is expected to greatly enhance recreational opportunities for residents, especially with the focus on sustainability and community engagement.
News in Brief: Edgewater Recreation Center Pickleball Courts
Anne Arundel County plans to transform a former grocery store into the Edgewater Recreation Center, featuring pickleball courts, a gym, and an indoor playground. The $11.5 million project will begin on July 1, with a completion date set for July 31. Sustainability and community engagement are key priorities.
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