Bill > SB971

This bill establishes Gwynns Falls State Park as a partnership park between the Department of Natural Resources and Baltimore City, meaning it will be managed jointly and focus on accessible outdoor recreation and learning opportunities, with the Department retaining overall state park administration. Importantly, the bill prohibits any entrance fees for this new park. It also mandates that the Governor include specific funding in the fiscal year 2028 budget: $2,880,354 for the park's establishment and operation, and an additional $280,000 to hire an independent consultant to develop a comprehensive master plan, which will define the park's exact boundaries and involve citizen input. Furthermore, the bill slightly increases the initial amount of funds from the Park System Capital Improvements and Acquisition Fund that can be used for various park improvements, including infrastructure, historic preservation, transportation, and water access, from $70,000,000 to $74,000,000. The bill also outlines requirements for community engagement, the establishment of a stakeholder advisory committee, and reporting to the General Assembly regarding suitable land and funding needs for the park, with the entire act taking effect on June 1, 2026.

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0971?ys=2026RS