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December 6, 2024

  • M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board Welcomes New Chairman Darryl Barnes

    For Immediate Release:

    July 14, 2025

    M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board Welcomes New Chairman Darryl Barnes

    LARGO, MD – The Prince George’s County Planning Board of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) welcomes The Honorable Darryl Barnes as Chairman of the five-member Planning Board. Appointed by Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy and confirmed by the Prince George’s County Council following a public hearing, Barnes was sworn in on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Barnes will serve a four-year term expiring on June 14, 2029.

    “I am extremely humbled by this opportunity and excited to have broader conversations on Land use planning and zoning, park acquisition and development, recreation programs, stewardship of natural, cultural, and historical assets,” said Chairman Barnes. “When you look at the two operating departments for planning and parks and recreation, there is nothing but opportunity for upward growth.”

    Barnes joins Prince George’s County Planning Board members: Vice Chair Dorothy F. Bailey and Commissioners Manuel Geraldo and A. Shuanise Washington. He presided over his first Planning Board meeting on Thursday, July 10, 2025. In addition to serving on the Prince George’s County Planning Board, the Planning Board members work with their colleagues on the Montgomery County Planning Board and meet monthly as the M-NCPPC’s full Commission. Barnes succeeds former Prince George’s County Planning Board Chair, Peter A. Shapiro, whose term ended on June 14, 2025.

    “I warmly welcome Darryl Barnes to the Commission and look forward to continuing to collaborate on regional issues as we work to advance the shared goals of the Commission and our counties,” said M-NCPPC Montgomery County Planning Board Chair Artie Harris.

    About Darryl Barnes

    The Honorable Darryl Barnes brings a deep understanding of the region from his eight years of service in the State of Maryland legislature and more than 20 years of entrepreneurship experience. As president of Barnes International, Ltd., he led strategic consulting and coordinated grassroots campaigns for clients in government, healthcare, education, and private sectors. Barnes launched and served as president and CEO of the Bi-County Business Roundtable where he promoted small business growth and wealth creation for a vibrant climate in the State of Maryland.

    From 2015 to 2023, Barnes served in the Maryland General Assembly as a State Delegate, representing Legislative District 25. During his tenure, he served among the highest-ranking members of the House of Delegates as Chief Deputy Majority Whip. He also was the Chairman of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus – elected for three consecutive terms to the largest black caucus in the United States. Barnes was a member of the Ways and Means Committee and the Maryland Veterans Caucus as well as the Chairman of the Revenues and Local Revenues subcommittee.

    A true community advocate, Barnes was the founder and president of Men Aiming Higher, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes at-risk young men through educational tutoring, leadership training, mentoring programs, and community service projects. He served as a member of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, Bowie State Foundation, Maryland Veterans Caucus, Prince George’s County School Construction Master Plan Workgroup, and the Board of Governors for The Tower Club.

    Barnes earned his bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Long Beach State College in California. He pursued leadership studies at The George Washington University and obtained a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification. Barnes has resided in Prince George’s County for nearly five decades, attended and graduated from Prince George’s County Public Schools, and served our country in both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army respectfully.

    About the Prince George’s County Planning Board

    The Prince George’s County Planning Board, together with the Montgomery County Planning Board, make up The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission – a bi-county agency established by State law in 1927 to acquire, develop, maintain, and administer a regional system of parks and administer a general plan for the physical development of both counties. In Prince George’s County, the agency also administers the public recreation program. The Planning Board’s responsibilities include supervising preparation of land use plans and comprehensive zoning maps, advising the County Council on zoning map amendment and special exception applications, and reviewing and approving site plans and subdivisions. The Board also oversees the Commission’s work in the County, as carried out by the Parks and Recreation and Planning Departments. In Prince George’s County, the Planning Board’s full-time Chair and four part-time members are appointed by the Prince George’s County Executive and confirmed by the Prince George’s County Council, serving overlapping four-year terms. Visit www.pgplanningboard.org for more information.

    About The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

    Founded in 1927, The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a nationally recognized leader in land use planning, parks, and recreation achieving countless awards for innovation, stewardship and exemplary vision for enhancing the lives of current and future generations. The agency, which is chartered by the State of Maryland, has geographic authority in the Montgomery County and Prince George’s County region, which are the two Maryland counties surrounding Washington, DC.

    The agency improves the well-being of over two-million residents and countless visitors within this region by:

    • Planning for the coordinated and harmonious physical growth and development of the region
    • Protecting and stewarding natural, cultural, and historical resources
    • Providing an award-winning system of parks
    • Creating recreational experiences that enhance the quality of life of all individuals
    • Planning great communities that are vibrant, livable, accessible and sustainable

    The Commission is comprised of seven distinct departments, each led by their respective Department Head. The Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County,  and the Prince George’s County Planning Department carry out services for the Prince George’s County region. Montgomery Parks and Montgomery Planning carry out services for Montgomery County. Bi-county corporate management is carried out by the Department of Human Resources and Management, the Department of Finance, and the Office of the General Counsel. Other Bi-county functions include the Office of Inspector General, the Office of the Chief Information Officer, and Merit System Board.

    The Commission’s governing body is comprised of ten Commissioners, five appointed to the Montgomery Planning Board and five appointed to the Prince George’s County Planning Board, which have oversight of decisions for the Montgomery and Prince George’s region. The Commission appoints the bi-county officers of the Executive Director, Secretary-Treasurer, and General Counsel.

    Assistance

    The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission encourages the participation of persons with disabilities in all its programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation. Call the Public Affairs Office at 301-952-3038, email PublicAffairs@ppd.mncppc.org, or complete the online form.

    Contact:

    Calista Black

    Chief Communications Officer

    calista.black@mncppc.org | 301-952-3038

    ###

  • M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Welcomes M-NCPPC Chairman Darryl Barnes and Honors National Parks and Recreation Month with Holidays in July celebration  

    RIVERDALE, Md. – In celebration of the appointment of the new M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board Chairman Darryl Barnes and National Park and Recreation Month,the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County will host a Community FUN Day – Holidays in July celebration as an opportunity to bring residents together and highlight the wide range of programs and services the Department provides year-round. The event is a chance to connect with the community while also sharing the benefits of the Department’s award-winning programs for the whole family. 

    The free, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex and is open to all ages. The day will be dedicated to FUN and will feature games, toy & bike giveaways, the Department’s FUN mobile units, including Sankofa, Arts on a Roll, and Get Fit Mobile, along with engaging activities designed to showcase the diverse recreational opportunities available. Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet the Department’s official mascot, FUN! 

    “The Department wants to take this opportunity to thank the residents of Prince George’s County, while also celebrating the power and impact that parks and recreation plays in our community,” said Darryl Barnes, Chairman of the M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board. “We’re excited to come together and connect with our residents and visitors about how they can Live More, Play more with us.”

    The Department serves nearly one million residents, offering thousands of programs each year including more than 400 summer camps and over 830 swim lessons. During the event, staff will be on-site to provide information about youth and senior programs, wellness initiatives, art and cultural events, sports leagues, historic and nature programs, and more. Residents will also have the opportunity to register for classes and learn about the latest updates about developments, playgrounds and projects happening in their communities. The community is encouraged to come out and find their FUN!

    EVENT DETAILS:

    Community FUN Day

    Celebrate Holidays in July!

    Saturday, July 19, 2025, 1-4 pm

    Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex

    7007 Bock Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744

    For more information about Community FUN Day and Department programs and facilities, visit pgparks.com.

  • Heat Advisory in Effect: M-NCPPC Encourages Safety and Use of Cooling Resources

    Riverdale, MD – June 24, 2025 – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County remind residents and visitors to take precaution and use local cooling resources during the extreme heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service. The Department’s community centers and pools will be open and serve as cooling locations.  Additionally, several outdoor programs and services have been canceled or modified today due to the heat. Details on available cooling centers, aquatic facilities and program cancellations are included below or visit pgparks.com for more information.


    Cooling Relief Options Available

    All Department sites—including community centers and indoor facilities—are open during normal hours and may be used as quick-stop cooling centers. These sites offer short-term relief such as a place to cool down, grab a drink of water, or use the restroom. While not full-service cooling centers, they are available to help individuals manage the heat safely.

    For longer stays, the Department has designated several official cooling centers across Prince George’s County. These locations are air-conditioned and open during their standard operating hours. Please confirm the hours of operation before visiting.

    Designated Cooling Centers

    • Berwyn Heights Community Center 6200 Pontiac St, Berwyn Heights, MD 20740
    • Camp Springs Senior Activity Center 6420 Allentown Road, Camp Springs, MD 20748
    • Cedar Heights Community Center 1200 Glen Willow Drive, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
    • Glenarden Community Center 8615 McLain Ave, Glenarden, MD 20706
    • Harmony Hall Recreation Center 10701 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Hillcrest Heights Community Center 2300 Oxon Run Dr. Hillcrest Heights, MD  20748
    • Huntington Community Center 13022 8th St. Unit B, Bowie, MD 20720
    • John E Howard Community Center 4400 Shell Street Capitol Heights, MD 20743
    • John E Howard Senior Activity Center 4400 Shell Street, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
    • Kentland Community Center 2413 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover, MD 20785
    • Langley Park Community Center 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville, MD 20783
    • Largo/Kettering/Perrywood Community Center 431 Watkins Park Dr, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
    • Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center 7120 Contee Road, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Oakcrest Community Center 1300 Capitol Heights Blvd, District Heights, MD 20747
    • Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Rd Landover, MD 20785
    • Rolllingcrest-Chillum Community Center 6120 Sargent Rd, Chillum, MD 20782
    • Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex 13601 Missouri Avenue, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Southern Regional Technology and Recreational Center 7007 Bock Road Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Suitland Community Center 5600 Regency Lane, Forestville, MD 20747
    • Temple Hills Community Center 5300 Temple Hill Rd, Temple Hills, MD 20748
    • Tucker Road Ice Rink 1770 Tucker Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Upper Marlboro Community Center 5400 Marlboro Race Track Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
    • Vansville Community Center 6813 Ammendale Road, Beltsville, MD 20705

    Program Cancellations for June 24

    Due to continued extreme heat conditions, the Department has canceled or modified the following programs and services for Tuesday, June 24 out of an abundance of caution:

    • Shakespeare in the Parks (June 24 performance at Montpelier Arts Center) – Canceled
    • Yoga in the Parks (June 24 at Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex) – Canceled
    • Yoga in the Parks (June 24 at Watkins Regional Parks) – Canceled
    • Youth and Countywide Sports Division (YCSD) – All natural grass athletic fields and synthetic turf fields are closed

    These cancellations reflect our commitment to public safety and the well-being of our patrons, staff, and performers. For the most current updates, please visit pgparks.com or sign up for PGParks Alerts.

    Please be advised: Programs and services may be adjusted, postponed, or canceled when temperatures reach 100 degrees or higher. These decisions prioritize the health and safety of staff and community members.

    Pools Remain Open

    All indoor and outdoor pools will remain open and operate on their regular schedules. Advanced reservations are recommended to secure entry. Walk-ins are welcome while space is available. Visiting one of the Department’s pools is a great way to stay cool, active, and refreshed during periods of extreme heat. Families are encouraged to enjoy a safe, splash-filled escape from the high temperatures.

    Indoor Aquatic Facilities (Hours vary by location):

    • Allentown Splash Park: 7210 Allentown Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Fairland Sports & Aquatics Complex: 13820 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex: 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD 20785
    • Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool: 6122 Sargent Road, Hyattsville, MD 20782
    • Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex: 13601 Missouri Avenue, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatic Center: 8615 McLain Avenue, Glenarden, MD 20706

    Outdoor Aquatic Facilities:

    • Allentown Splash Park: 7210 Allentown Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Ellen Linson Splash Park: 5211 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740
    • Glenn Dale Splash Park: 1901 Glenn Dale Boulevard, Glenn Dale, MD 20769
    • Hamilton Splash Park: 3901 Hamilton Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781
    • J. Franklyn Bourne Pool: 6500 Calmos Street, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
    • Lane Manor Splash Park: 7601 West Park Drive, Hyattsville, MD 20783
    • North Barnaby Splash Park: 5000 Wheeler Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

    Outdoor Activity Advisory

    To reduce risk of heat-related illness, patrons are strongly encouraged to limit time outdoors, especially during peak heat hours (10 AM to 4 PM). When possible, consider postponing visits to the following:

    • Parks and trails
    • Outdoor courts (tennis, pickleball, basketball)
    • Playgrounds
    • Golf courses
    • Picnic pavilions
    • Campgrounds
    • Trap & Skeet Center
    • Old Maryland Farm
    • Any other outdoor recreational facility

    Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat

    • Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water throughout the day
    • Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours
    • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
    • Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
    • Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
    • Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those without AC

    We appreciate your cooperation as we navigate this extreme weather together. Stay safe, stay cool, and continue to “Live More, Play More”—safely.

    For updates, facility information, or to sign up for PGParks Alerts, visit www.pgparks.com.

    About the Department

    With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for residents in Prince George’s County and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will assure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

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