BALTIMORE, MD (Thursday, December 12, 2024) – A momentous occasion took place earlier today as Mayor Brandon M. Scott, along with Baltimore City Recreation & Parks (BCRP) and city officials, unveiled plans for a world-class swimming facility in West Baltimore. This $8 million construction project is set to breathe new life into the Poppleton community's pool infrastructure.

Unlock the Potential of Poppleton's Pool with an $8 Million Upgrade

Equity-Driven Initiative

This project is a testament to the city's commitment to closing long-standing equity gaps. Mayor Brandon M. Scott firmly believes that everyone in Baltimore deserves access to world-class recreational facilities. The closure of the Poppleton pool five years ago was a setback, but now, with this $8 million upgrade, a first-class facility is on the horizon. It will once again serve as a gathering place and unifying force for the community.The multi-agency and community collaboration behind this project is remarkable. The Mayor's Office of Recovery Programs, the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC), and the Southwest Partnership have all come together to make this dream a reality. In addition, design consultants CannonDesign and lead contractor Plano-Coudon Construction are playing crucial roles.

State-of-the-Art Aquatics Facility

The construction of the brand-new Greater Model Aquatic Center is part of the City's Rec Rollout initiative. This $8 million project will result in a pool with multi-generational aquatic opportunities. There will be both a lap pool and a family recreation pool, ensuring that people of all ages can enjoy the water.Baltimore City Recreation & Parks has teamed up with CannonDesign to ensure that the investment in upgrading City pools is equitable. This means that all residents will have access to modern, world-class pools. Director Reginald Moore is excited about the progress, stating that since December 2023, there have been four groundbreaking ceremonies for new aquatic centers. Three will open in time for the 2025 summer season, and the Greater Model Aquatic Center will open in summer 2026.

BCRP's Rec Rollout and Community Impact

BCRP's Rec Rollout includes ribbon cuttings and a series of groundbreaking celebrations to announce upcoming recreational projects. By visiting bcrp.baltimorecity.gov and following them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @Recnparks, residents can stay updated on these events and more.Baltimore City Recreation & Parks is Baltimore's leading provider of affordable, year-round recreational activities. They build a stronger Baltimore one community at a time through conservation, well-being, and social equity. With 263 parks, 51 recreation centers, 25 miles of biking and hiking trails, and approximately 4,700 acres of parkland, they offer a wide range of opportunities for residents to enjoy.About Baltimore City Recreation & ParksBaltimore City Recreation & Parks (BCRP) is Baltimore’s leading provider of affordable, year-round recreational activities. BCRP builds a stronger Baltimore one community at a time through conservation, well-being and social equity. BCRP manages and maintains 263 parks, 51 recreation centers, 25 miles of biking and hiking trails, and approximately 4,700 acres of parkland. To learn more about our programs and services, visit http://bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/.About the Mayor’s Office of Recovery ProgramsThe American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) provided $641 million to the City of Baltimore in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and its negative economic impacts. Mayor Brandon M. Scott has established the Mayor’s Office of Recovery Programs to transparently and effectively administer this funding on behalf of the City. For additional information, visit the Mayor’s Office of Recovery Programs website at arp.baltimorecity.gov.