Hundreds gathered to celebrate the newly renovated park
Wheaton, Md. – Montgomery Parks celebrated the grand reopening of Ovid Hazen Wells Recreational Park on Saturday, May 16, 2026, marking the completion of major renovations.
Families gathered for the celebration as children lined up eagerly for the debut of the Ovid Hazen Wells Carousel, with live music, skate park demonstrations, and refreshments adding to the festive atmosphere.
“This reopening delivers on a long-awaited promise to the Clarksburg community,” said Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks. “With the historic carousel, a new skate park, upgraded play areas and scenic trails, Ovid Hazen Wells Recreational Park offers families a dynamic place to play, explore, and enjoy the outdoors together.”
Built in 1915 by the Herschell-Spillman Company, the carousel was once owned and operated by the Wells family on the National Mall. Montgomery Parks later preserved it with the goal of returning it to Clarksburg.
“Ovid Hazen Wells Recreational Park reflects a vision of stewardship that has guided this land for decades,” said Artie Harris, chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board. “It honors Hallie Wells’ generous gift by preserving open space, protecting the landscape’s character, and ensuring this park will serve future generations.”
Spanning 290 acres, Ovid Hazen Wells Recreational Park brings new recreational opportunities and a renewed destination for Clarksburg residents and visitors.
Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks manages 416 parks and more than 37,000 acres of parkland. Our parks, programs, and facilities promote physical activity, social connection, and environmental stewardship. As part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Montgomery Parks is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible park experiences. M-NCPPC has been stewarding public lands since 1927 and has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services.
Accessibility
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Program Access Office at 301-495-2581 (Voice/TTY), MD Relay 7-1-1 or 800-552-7724 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org to request a disability modification. Visit Montgomery Parks Accessibility for more information.
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