#OdentonNeedsAPark

19 October 2020

The Honorable Steuart Pittman

Arundel Center

44 Calvert Street

Annapolis, MD 21401  

RE: #OdentonNeedsApark  

Dear County Executive Pittman,

I am writing to you in support of the Odenton Library Park.  Most of the land in Odenton is privately owned and landowners have little to no incentive to partner to create sufficient green space and establish parks and other non-revenue generating locations. When the County has an opportunity to create a park, it must seize that opportunity because we, the residents of Odenton, have no other options. This proposed park is packed full of amenities that could benefit Odenton immediately.

The proposed park has multiple dog parks for different sized dogs. Our dog owners might do quick jaunts around the Town Center, but there is no place within Odenton where a dog can just run without being leashed. Dog owners will welcome having three different areas for dogs.  One for small dogs, one for large dogs and one extra to let the land rest. This forethought into how to make Odenton a welcoming community for dog owners shows the care given to this project.

The proposed park also has nature trails to provide a sense of peace and tranquility to one of the busiest areas within Odenton. The Town Center is designed to be the heart of Odenton with two arterial roads having near constant traffic. While new construction includes sidewalks to connect the Town Center to the surrounding areas, there are limited places members of the public can go to escape walking beside a busy road.  The proposed playground will also be a welcome addition to the area.

The proposed amphitheater will create Odenton’s first non-commercial, outdoor, public gathering space.  To build a sense of community, Odenton needs a central location to gather for events. There is no public space within Odenton serving this purpose and as such, the Odenton community does not have any centralized events to help establish the feel of a community.

The proposed Odenton Park provides a solution to many shortcomings that Odenton currently is exhibiting. As developers continue to build more houses, condominiums, and apartments within Odenton, people are increasingly requesting something to do in Odenton. A park would indicate a very strong showing from the County that this concern is being taken seriously.  I strongly support the Odenton Park and encourage you to advocate and budget for funding in fiscal year 2022 to make this park a reality.

Regards,

Bridget McConnell

Property Manager - The Village at Odenton Station

Bridget McConnell    Contact the author of the petition