FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, March 24, 2021
Media Contact: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311

M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces  Reopening of Select Facilities 

RIVERDALE, MD – The Department of Parks and Recreation, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, announces the reopening of select facilities on Monday, March 29, to provide the Prince George’s County community activities to live more, play more. Registration for these offerings will begin on Thursday, March 25 through pgparksdirect.com.

“Following the guidance of the County Executive and public health officials, we are pleased to begin reopening several facilities,” says M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation Director, Bill Tyler. “We hope these measured steps will welcome the community back to our facilities and programs in a way that ensures them that their safety and comfort remain our top priority.”  

Facilities reopening on March 29 include:

• Fitness rooms and gymnasiums – The Department is reopening 13 community centers to provide fitness rooms and gymnasiums for patrons. Reservations are limited to one individual/family per time slot depending on the activity. No walk-ins are allowed. Registrations can be made via pgparksdirect.com. The centers opening are: Bladensburg Community Center, College Park Community Center, Fort Washington Forest Community Center, Glenarden Community Center, Glenn Dale Community Center, North Brentwood Community Center, Seat Pleasant Activity Center, Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex, Suitland Community Center, Tucker Road Community Center, Upper Marlboro Community Center, Vansville Community Center, and William Beanes Community Center. Additionally, the Department is opening the indoor pool at the Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex.   
• Nature Centers - Visitors to Watkins, Clearwater and Mount Rainier Nature Centers will enjoy a self-guided tour that takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.  The nature centers have up to 30 species of animals on display. Clearwater and Watkins Nature Centers also have an outdoor live bird exhibit to see more species of birds.        
• Waterfront Parks – Visitors to our Bladensburg Waterfront Park and Patuxent River Park can preregister for rentals of canoe and kayaks up to 2 weeks in advance. Patuxent River Park campsite rentals are currently available for weekends only.  The park grounds are open during normal public hours.   
• College Park Aviation Museum - Visitors will take a self-guided tour – learning all about College Park Airport, the world’s oldest continuously operating airport, as well as aviation history and innovation in Prince George’s County and beyond. There will be four interactives available: the simulator, Sportcopter, the Imagination Plane, Kahoot challenges, plus many photo opportunities. Flight School is currently unavailable. In addition, upon exiting, guests will have the opportunity to purchase items from the gift shop. The experience takes about 30 minutes to complete.   
• Brentwood Arts Exchange - Visitors will be invited to peruse exhibits in our Main Gallery and Lab Gallery; currently on exhibit through April 17, 2021, Everyday: Finding Meaning in the Ordinary, exploring new perspectives on finding hidden beauty in everyday objects. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to make use of our Computer Lab, offering digital services including large scale and 3D printing. Finally, visitors are welcome to make purchases in our Artisan Shop, featuring handcrafted items from artists across the Gateway Arts District and throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area.  Gallery hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 11 am-5 pm (closed major holidays) by appointment only. Admission is free.  
• Montpelier Arts Center – Visitors can explore the galleries of Montpelier Arts Center, a multifaceted, community-oriented facility that has been a complete arts destination for over 40 years. The three galleries housed at the Arts Center introduce changing exhibitions by local and national visual artists who work in a variety of media and styles.  Gallery hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 11 am-5 pm (closed major holidays) by appointment only. Admission is free.  
• The Prince George's Ballroom is preparing to welcome back clients to celebrate milestone occasions, meetings, weddings and social events. The office will be open and available to assist clients with their future planning needs via phone, email, and in person by appointment only.   

Your Guide to Programs and Classes  

The Department is excited to share a variety of virtual and outdoor programs and activities as we spring forward into April. Due to the changing circumstances of COVID-19, the spring session of programs and classes will be published in three separate issues of Your Guide — a March, April, and May issue. This allows more up-to-date offerings within the changing guidelines for Prince George’s County. See our April Guide for exciting programs and activities, both virtual and in-person, for people of all ages.    

Face coverings are required at all times. Temperature checks will be required for indoor activities.  Gatherings in the parks are limited to 10 people and visitors must stay six feet apart. Pavilion rentals are currently not available. For a detailed list of facilities, fields and other amenities that are opening, visit pgparks.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.

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