Meadowside Nature Center Renovations

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Division: Park Development

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Project Description

This project renovates and replaces the existing interpretive exhibits inside and outside Meadowside Nature Center, located at 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 

Background

The existing Legacy of the Land and Legacy of the People exhibits will be removed. In its place, a completely new, 2,400+ square foot immersive and interpretive exhibits will be installed. Taking inspiration from the environment and natural resources located around the nature center, these exhibits will draw on the human senses of taste, touch, smell, sight, and sound, and incorporate the senses throughout the entire Nature Center. 

The main exhibit will consist of a fully interactive and accessible journey through some of the habitats found in our area, including pond, forest, and meadow with displays such as a large birds’ nest and musical lily pads. The lobby will include visuals on the ceiling, interactive nature-themed tables, and an area to sit with large groups. The hallway and classrooms will each be refurbished to include a community science project, new animal displays, an updated infant and toddler corner, and classrooms to accommodate nature programs. 

Each exhibit will include equipment to meet the needs of children from ages two to adult and will incorporate universally accessible equipment to include children of all abilities. 

The Nature Play Space is closed and will be updated to increase accessibility and to incorporate new activities.

Status/Project Update

Construction has already begun with the complete demolition of the Legacy of the Land exhibit in order to prepare the space for the new installation. Over the next several months, new flooring will be installed, restrooms will be updated, and exciting new content via new construction will be added. The anticipated date of re-opening is early spring 2022, but please continue to visit our webpage for the most up-to-date information.

*Please be advised that the Nature Play Space, Raptor Deck, and portions of the trails will be closed during construction. The park property and parking lot will remain open from dawn to dusk daily. 

Calendar and Meeting Notes

Links to review meeting notes and presentation materials will be attached to each applicable calendar event as it is scheduled and completed. 

M-NCPPC Staff Contact
Susan Cook, Exhibits Specialist
Susan.Cook@MontgomeryParks.org
301-670-8138