City Council Awaits Approval of Eco-Park

College Park council members await approval for a grant that could bring an eco-park to the city. The council's decision in favor of the park was established by a 4-3 vote, said Councilman Patrick Wojahn.

The park, which would be located in what is now a rental house on the corner of Edgewood Drive and Baltimore Avenue, is one step in an attempt to make the city a more walkable community. The University of Maryland, located directly off of Route 1, has already taken action by limiting vehicle traffic at the center of campus to cater to pedestrian walkways.

"We're looking for the day Route 1 becomes a more eco-friendly place," Wojahn said.

The council applied for Program Open Space funds from the state to be put toward an outdoor space, but are still in talks regarding use of that space. Specifically, the city applied for the Community Legacy Grant, which should be approved or declined in early fall, and will determine the fate of the eco-park. With this grant, the city can "make something unique and give us a resource for change," Wojahn said.

For many bicyclists and pedestrians in the area, the park could serve as an ideal rest stop. Eventually, the City Council strives to make the rest of College Park eco-friendly as well, through implementation of biking and walking paths along Route 1.

Reservations for some council members include the location of the park, which would be just at the busy Route 1 intersection, and the lack of parking that comes with the space.

"It's a waste of time," said Councilman John Perry. "The property is zoned commercial and should be developed commercial."

Council members Christine Nagle and Mark Cook also voiced concerns regarding accessibility of the park in this location.

Wojahn says that the council will be looking for "significant public input" as the project progresses. Timelines for any decisions are unclear as plans remain in preliminary stages.

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated that "the council purchased Program Open Space funds from the state to be put toward an outdoor space, but are still in talks regarding use of that space." The word "purchased" should have read "applied for."