Project Description
Long Branch-Wayne Local Park is located at 509 E. University Blvd. in Silver Spring between E. Wayne Avenue and Glenville Road. The park is located between Long Branch Stream Valley Unit #2 to the west and University Boulevard (MD 193) to the east. Wayne Avenue runs along the north edge of the park and provides vehicular access to the existing parking lot. The park is located within the Brookside Forest Neighborhood, which is comprised primarily of single-family homes and local schools.
The goal of this project is to develop a design for the short and long-term renovation of the park, including a detailed cost estimate and permits. The design process will focus on identifying opportunities to improve the park as an amenity for the local community while balancing that with the challenges that accompany an active recreation facility. Although the park’s location along University Boulevard provides visibility and access to the greater community, improvements to the park must also consider impacts to adjacent residences and environmental features that contribute to its identity. The project will also identify and upgrade site elements that are non-compliant with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
Ultimately, the implementation of park improvements may occur through a phased approach, based on available funding. Phase I construction will include, at a minimum, the renovation, expansion, and possible relocation of the existing playground.
Background
Originally acquired in 1984, this 6.1-acre park’s amenities include a playground, softball field, multi-use field, basketball court, covered pavilion, and a paved parking lot. The site slopes dramatically from east to west, resulting in a unique quality to the park. Large deciduous shade trees comprise a majority of the eastern half of the park with some open lawn areas in between. Although the combination of significant grade change and wooded areas contributes to the park’s uniqueness, it also limits visibility into the park and adds to a sense of disjointedness between park amenities.
Along the park’s perimeter, a narrow sidewalk parallels University Boulevard and connects pedestrians to the park, with vehicle access occurring along East Wayne Avenue. Beyond the park’s boundary to the west is a narrow footpath and bridge leading pedestrians across Long Branch to a steep set of steps that connects to the continuation of Wayne Avenue.
The site contains concrete pathways, steps, site furnishings, and a porta-john. Wood picnic tables and a grill are provided at the covered pavilion.
Status/Project Update
The Planning Board approved the Facility Plan on July 20, 2017. The Detailed Design phase is expected to begin in Summer 2022 (FY23).
*Dates and times subject to change. Please contact the project manager for additional information.
| Project Dates | Project Details | Project Resources |
|---|---|---|
| March 2016 | Community Meeting #1 Solicit community input. |
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| Summer 2016 | Develop Park renovation concept alternatives based on existing conditions assessment and community input. | |
| September 20, 2016 | Community Meeting #2 Present and receive feedback. on proposed park renovation concepts. | View the meeting #2 notes. (accessible pdf) Feedback from meeting. Green dot= ‘prefer’, red dot= ‘do not prefer’ Long Branch Wayne- Concept 1 14 red dots off map
|
| November 2, 2016 | Meeting notes with Pickwick Village HOA Board of Directors | |
| February 2017 | Community Meeting #3 feedback on the proposed preferred concept plan |
|
| May 2017 | Recommended concept plan posting for community review. | View the May 17 proposed recommended concept plan. |
| July 20, 2017 | Planning Board Meeting Facility Plan Approved | View the Staff Report Planning Board Meeting Facility Plan (accessible pdf) |
| Summer 2022-Summer 2024* | Detailed Design, Construction Documentation, and Final Permitting phase | |
| Summer 2024-Fall 2025* | Construction of park improvements | |
