Work began in July for Phase II of the redevelopment of Rash Field Park at the Inner Harbor. The former volleyball courts, track, bleachers, and Pride Memorial have all been demolished and remediation, grading, and utility work is underway.
Waterfront Partnership has secured $18 million in funding, including $14 million from the State and $4 million from Baltimore City, to complete the renovation of the 7.5-acre Rash Field Park.
About Phase II from Waterfront Partnership:
While the portion of Rash Field Park that opened in November 2021 emphasized children’s play and how welcoming and accessible waterfront public spaces can be, the second and final phase will focus on recreation, wellness and leisure. Elements include a large open lawn for field games or special events, extensive gardens, a beach and several walking paths, including a nature walk and a fitness trail with exercise equipment. Led by Mahan Rykiel Associates, the design for the park has focused on user interaction with feedback provided through community engagement incorporated into each phase of the design.
“The Lawn” is envisioned as a flexible space for a relaxing spot to have a picnic or enjoy the waterfront views; an event space; or a sports field. “The Gardens” will provide a space for city residents to reconnect with and learn about nature on a deeper level and in an adjacent area, park users can engage in fitness activities. In addition to two pickleball courts and six beach volleyball courts, “The Beach” is designed as a space for visitors to dip their toes in the sand to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
Plano Coudon is the general contractor on the project. Phase II is projected to be completed this summer.
The $16.8-million Phase I opened in November 2021. It included a park with a pair of 30-ft. wooden towers and the BGE Nature Play area; Jake’s Skate Park which is named in memory of Jake Owen, an avid skater and sports lover who was killed when he was five years old by a cell phone-distracted driver in 2011; a shade lawn; a green overlook; the BGE Pavilion; and a cafe space that will the future home of One Do Coffee.
Rash Field Park was built at the south shore of the Inner Harbor in 1975, and Waterfront Partnership has been working on plans to redevelop it for the last couple of decades. It originally served as a sports stadium for Southern High School.
Renderings courtesy of Mahan Rykiel and Waterfront Partnership
