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December 6, 2024
  • Major Aquatic Capital Improvement Project and Renovation at Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex Scheduled to Begin October 2025

    RIVERDALE, Md. — M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is excited to announce the upcoming start of a major aquatic capital improvement project and renovation at the Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex. The project is tentatively scheduled to begin mid- to late October 2025, with the competition pool as the first phase. This extensive project, strategically evaluated over the past two years, will include a two-phase, two-year approach designed to minimize service disruptions while maximizing time efficiency and cost effectiveness. It will include mechanical system replacements and measures to protect daily operations. Our goal is to enhance the quality and experience of the Department’s aquatic venues and amenities, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and operational efficiency in continuing to provide enjoyment for all our user groups and patrons.

    Project Overview

    The improvement project will include significant upgrades to the existing infrastructure of the competition pool, including demolition and reconstruction. Key components of the project include reconfiguration the groundwater drainage systems to support site dewatering, installing state-of-the-art filtration and heating systems, renovating the pool shell and deck surfaces, and enhancing surrounding amenities such as family changing rooms, locker rooms, showers, and fixtures in conjunction with accessibility upgrades. These renovations will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the aquatics facilities but also will ensure longevity and enhance functionality for years to come.

    Information for Our Valued Community

    We understand that this renovation project will impact our existing users, and we are committed to minimizing any inconvenience. To help patrons plan for the fall and beyond, we along with the contractor will:

    • Maintain open communication via email, social media, and public meetings to address any questions or concerns. Starting with In-Person and Virtual community engagement meetings to take place on Tuesday, August 26, In Person at 10 am at The Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex in our Town Hall Room, and Virtual at 6:30 pm via Zoom.
    • Provide a draft rendering of the final renovation design.
    • Share a tentative project timeline at pgparks.com.  
    • Provide constant updates through community bulletins and announcements that include video and photos of progress.
    • Communicate in advance and provide signage and construction site plan logistics for awareness and safety.
    • Offer access to alternative aquatic facilities and programs during the closure period.

    Our goal is to deliver a revitalized aquatic venue that will serve the community better than ever before.

    Looking Ahead

    M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is committed to investing in our community’s recreational resources. This major aquatic capital improvement project is a testament to our dedication to providing high-quality facilities that enhance health, wellness, and overall quality of life for all residents and user groups.

    We thank you for your patience and understanding as we embark on this exciting journey. Together, we can look forward to a future filled with enhanced recreational opportunities and a beautifully renovated aquatic venue.  The improvements will increase functionality, energy efficiency, reduce downtime, expand programming offerings, and enhance our ability to accommodate event requests and access for swim teams, practices, and competitions, particularly those serving youth and teens, both within the county and beyond.

    During this initial phase and with the anticipated closure of the competition pool beginning in October 2025, there will be some impacts to programming. This includes logistical and scheduling adjustments for programs such as the Senior Day Program, lap swimming, water walking, learn-to-swim, and water fitness classes. These programs will be relocated to the Leisure Pool.

    The Aquatics program and management staff will continue working diligently to adjust scheduling and logistics to support a wide variety of existing programs. Our goal is to minimize disruptions to patrons and preserve the user experience regarding pool availability. However, given the high demand and limited availability of the Leisure Pool, program adjustments and prioritization may be necessary.   

    In the coming months, we will provide regular updates and reminders to help prepare users for fall and winter programming changes to ensure a smooth transition during this renovation period. We invite you to visit any of our six indoor pools this fall-winter season for additional aquatic programs, services, and drop-in swim opportunities.

    Indoor Pools:

    • Allentown Splash, Tennis, and Fitness Park – 7210 Allentown Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Fairland Sports & Aquatic Complex – 13820 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex – 8001 Sheriff Rd, Landover, MD 20785
    • Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool – 6122 Sargent Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20782
    • Southern Area Aquatic & Recreation Complex – 13601 Missouri Ave, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Southern Regional Aquatic Wellness Center – 7011 Bock Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatics Center – 8615 McLain Ave, Glenarden, MD 20706

    Stay updated by visiting pgparks.com and signing up for PGParks Alerts to receive notifications on your mobile device.

    If you have any questions or concerns, please email splex@pgparks.com

    About the Department

    With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future.

  • Hispanic Festival Community Message

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2025

    COMMUNITY MESSAGE

    M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s has made the difficult decision to not move forward with this year’s Hispanic Festival. This decision comes after careful consideration and growing concerns within the Latino and immigrant community.

    Our top priority is, and will always be, the safety and well-being of our residents, visitors, and staff. While we know this event is deeply meaningful to our community, we cannot in good conscience move forward with a celebration that could place anyone at risk.

    Though we may not have the Hispanic Festival this year, we continue to celebrate the community and invite you to join us at any of the events that can be found on pgparks.com.  Please know that we remain committed to serving our community and will continue to provide safe, welcoming spaces and events for all. We thank you for your understanding and continued support.

    MENSAJE A LA COMUNIDAD

     El Departamento de Parques y Recreación de La Comisión de Parques y Planificación de Maryland-Área de la Capital Nacional (M-NCPPC por sus siglas en inglés), Condado de Prince George’s, ha tomado la difícil decisión de no seguir adelante con el Festival Hispano de este año. Esta decisión se tomó tras una cuidadosa consideración y en respuesta a las crecientes inquietudes dentro de la comunidad latina e inmigrante.

    Nuestra máxima prioridad es, y siempre será, la seguridad y el bienestar de nuestros residentes, visitantes, y personal. Sabemos que este evento tiene un profundo significado para nuestra comunidad, pero no podemos, en buena conciencia, seguir adelante con una celebración que pudiera poner alguien en riesgo.

    Aunque el Festival Hispano no se celebrará este año, seguiremos celebrando la comunidad y le invitamos a unirse a nosotros en cualquiera de los eventos que encontrarán en pgparks.com. Seguimos comprometidos a servir a nuestra comunidad y continuaremos ofreciendo espacios y eventos seguros para todos. Agradecemos su comprensión y continuo apoyo.

  • Prince George’s County Planning Board Announces New Director Darius A. Stanton for the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County

    LARGO, MD – The Prince George’s County Planning Board of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) announces its appointment of Darius A. Stanton as the new Director of the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County. Effective Monday, July 21, 2025, Stanton will assume leadership of the Department comprised of more than 5,000 full and part-time employees, an unionized park police force, and a $492 million operating budget – all supporting 200+ miles of trails, 300+ athletic fields, four regional parks, four golf courses, an equestrian center, the oldest continuously operating airport in the world, a minor league baseball stadium, community and senior activity centers, ice skating rinks, and more.

    “Darius A. Stanton is a values-driven leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to results, innovation, and community engagement,” says Darryl Barnes Chairman of the Prince George’s County Planning Board. “His experience in public safety, youth development, and strategic operations makes him uniquely qualified to lead our department into its next era.”

    The Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County – a six-time National Gold Medal Award winner and current 2025 finalist – is a national leader in innovation, service, and community impact. With more than 29,000 acres of parkland including trails, cultural spaces, and historic sites, the Department remains dedicated to creating inclusive, accessible, and sustainable opportunities for all residents and visitors. With the guiding plan, Formula 2040, and the mission to help people “Live More, Play More,” the Department provides opportunities for active lifestyles, meaningful connections, and community pride through programs, classes, events, and accessible facilities. 

    “I am honored to serve the residents of Prince George’s County in this capacity,” said Stanton. “Our parks and recreation facilities are not just amenities – they are destinations, engines of public health, safety, and family development. I look forward to building on the Department’s legacy and expanding access to transformative programs.”

    About Darius A. Stanton

    Darius A. Stanton brings more than three decades of executive leadership across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. His career began in the City of Annapolis, where he was appointed Drug Czar at age 22. He moved to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington and ultimately became Vice President of Operations overseeing facilities, staff – civilians and police officers, and award-winning youth programs. He later transitioned to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore. His leadership helped launch a program called the “Boys Club” at the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center, which has been credited with reducing violence in the facility. Mr. Stanton was the co-founder of The Stanton Group, Inc., a human development and strategic business consulting firm.

    Mr. Stanton holds a master’s degree in human services from Lincoln University and has taught sociology at Anne Arundel Community College. He is the immediate past Board President of the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation and currently serves as a Commissioner on the Maryland Economic Development Commission. He resides in Prince George’s County with his wife of 29 years and their family.

    About the Prince George’s County Planning Board

    The Prince George’s County Planning Board, together with the Montgomery County Planning Board, make up The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission – a bi-county agency established by State law in 1927 to acquire, develop, maintain, and administer a regional system of parks and administer a general plan for the physical development of both counties. In Prince George’s County, the agency also administers the public recreation program. The Planning Board’s responsibilities include supervising preparation of land use plans and comprehensive zoning maps, advising the County Council on zoning map amendment and special exception applications, and reviewing and approving site plans and subdivisions. The Board also oversees the Commission’s work in the County, as carried out by the Parks and Recreation and Planning Departments. In Prince George’s County, the Planning Board’s full-time Chair and four part-time members are appointed by the Prince George’s County Executive and confirmed by the Prince George’s County Council, serving overlapping four-year terms. Visit www.pgplanningboard.org for more information.

    About the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County

    With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

    Assistance

    The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission encourages the participation of persons with disabilities in all its programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. Call the Public Affairs Office at 301-952-3038, email PublicAffairs@ppd.mncppc.org, or complete the online form.

    Contact:

    Calista Black

    Chief Communications Officer

    calista.black@mncppc.org | 301-952-3038