FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 3, 2020
Media Contact: Angel.Waldron@pgparks.com, 301-446-3311
M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation Aquatics Recognized in
2020 Best of the Best for COVID-19 Response and Reopening Plan
Riverdale, MD – The Maryland – National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is honored to be included in Aquatics International Magazine’s 2020 Best of the Best for its COVID-19 Response and Reopening Plan. The publication recognized 10 aquatic teams across the country that have adapted to increase safety, inclusion and satisfaction among visitors, community and staff during the pandemic.
“Being honored for ‘diversity excellence in safe, aquatic facility opening and operations in the coronavirus pandemic’ reaffirms that we are making the safety of our patrons and staff our priority,” proclaims Bill Tyler, Director of the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation. “The additional recognition as a ‘Top 10 aquatics team in the nation’ validates the excellence that the Department is known for and that we are proud to deliver to the residents of Prince George’s County.”
The Department is specifically honored for its achievements in diversity, noting actions such as:
- Allowing cash and in-person payments at three of seven open facilities, to make pools as easily accessed as possible for the diverse residents of Prince George’s County
- Allowing lap and general recreation swimming upon reopening, to accommodate less advanced swimmers
- Using guidance and input from facility managers, in order to consider all perspectives.
“COVID-19 demonstrated the need for thoughtful collaboration, and we believed it was vital to have our facility managers actively engaged in developing a comprehensive reopening plan,” Tara Eggleston Stewart, division chief of aquatics and athletic facilities says. “The facility managers are very close to their facilities — they know their patrons and staff well — so it was important that their voices were heard.”
Learn more about the Department’s recognition here.
The Department currently has the following indoor pool facilities open to the public:
Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool
6122 Sargent Road, Chillum, MD 20782
Theresa Banks Memorial Pool
8615 McLain Avenue, Glenarden, MD 20706
Allentown Splash, Tennis, and Fitness Park
7210 Allentown Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744
Fairland Sports & Aquatic Center
13820/13950 Old Gunpowder Rd., Laurel, MD 20707
Prince George’s Sports & Learning Aquatic Center
8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785
For availability, and to make reservations, visit pgparksdirect.com.
About the Department
The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation delivers an award-winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County. For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, PhotoShelter, and Instagram. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all 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.
###