The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore announced on Wednesday that it has secured the funding necessary to complete the second and final phase of the redevelopment of Rash Field Park and that construction will start this fall.
Designed by Mahan Rykiel Associates, the project will provide five acres of upgraded public space on the south shore of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, to go along with about 2.5 acres of recreational space that was completed in November of 2021.
“This is a big step forward for Baltimore’s Inner Harbor,” said Waterfront Partnership president Laurie Schwartz, in a statement. “With the State and City of Baltimore’s support, we can continue our work in bringing a new park to Baltimore’s waterfront. Our team and partners dedicated countless hours to ensuring community voices were heard and integrated into the Rash Field Park Phase two designs – it is truly a project designed by our community and we are excited to start construction later this year.”
One of the final pieces of funding is a $1.8 million Capital Projects Grant from the State of Maryland. Baltimore’s Board of Estimates on Wednesday approved a Capital Projects Grant Agreement that enables the Waterfront Partnership to use the state funds. According to a memo on the board’s agenda, the Partnership will use the funds “for the planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, reconstruction, site improvement and capital equipping of Rash Field Park.”
In all, the Waterfront Partnership has received $14 million from the state of Maryland for Phase Two of the park revitalization project. The City of Baltimore committed another $4 million in funds for the project, setting the stage for a groundbreaking this fall.
“Rash Field Park Phase Two is the culmination of tremendous leadership and advocacy from so many at the State and local level,” said Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, in a statement. “Today’s approval by the Baltimore City Board of Estimates is another essential step in realizing the revitalization of the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore. I’m proud to have played a part in its continued success.”
The $16.8 million first phase of Rash Field Park provides opportunities for children’s play, including Jake’s Skate Park, and features an overlook offering sweeping views of the downtown skyline. Its busiest period to date was Memorial Day Weekend in 2024, when it drew approximately 10,100 visitors.
The second phase will focus on recreation, wellness and leisure. Elements will 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.
“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.
“Rash Field Park is an amazing, reimagined green space that patrons flock to in record numbers,’” said Reginald Moore, executive director of Baltimore’s Department of Recreation and Parks, in a statement. “Adding Phase Two will enhance the overall appeal of the Inner Harbor for families, residents and tourists…We’re excited about collaborating with Waterfront Partnership to further enhance this space.”
