Caroline County is revitalizing a community park with help from Maryland state government.
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is providing $35,000 in Community Legacy funding to remove old, outdated equipment at the 4th Street Park in Denton and replace it with an open green space and walking trail for park users. The refurbishment is also expected to include an open lawn space for small community events.
While the Town of Denton previously completed playground updates in the park, it did not have the budget available to remove outdated equipment, according to Katie Northam, project manager for the Town of Denton. The newly awarded state funding will help eliminate the old equipment and restore a portion of the park to open green space, an essential factor in Maryland’s above average quality of life.
“The proposed 4th Street Park improvement project is an important investment in the health, well-being, and quality of life of our Town of Denton residents,” said Town Administrator Scott Getchell. ”Community parks serve as shared spaces where people of all ages can gather, recreate, and connect with nature, and enhancing these spaces strengthens the social fabric of our community.”
4th Street Park is located near small businesses, local government offices, and Eden Town Brewing Company, the first brewery in Caroline County, which recently celebrated its grand opening. The park also features tennis and pickleball courts with state-of-the-art lighting, as well as a picnic area.
The Community Legacy program provides local governments and community development organizations with funding aimed at strengthening communities through activities such as business retention and attraction, encouraging homeownership, and commercial revitalization. Projects must be located in Sustainable Communities and typically include mix-used development and streetscape improvements that encourage sustainable growth in the region.
“This investment in the Town of Denton is a strong example of how placemaking can elevate everyday spaces into community assets,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “With new green space for events and a walking trail, 4th Street Park will be transformed into a place where residents can gather, stay active, and feel connected to their community. Through the Community Legacy Program, we’re proud to support projects that strengthen local economies and build great places across Maryland.”
