RIVERDALE, Md. – M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County, along with elected officials and the community, celebrated the grand reopening of the new Marlow Heights Community Center on Saturday, April 19, marking a new chapter for a beloved neighborhood hub.
The ribbon cutting ceremony featured remarks from Maryland State Sen. Nicholas P. Charles, Maryland State Del. Karen Toles, Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Krystal Oriadha, Peter A. Shapiro Chairman of M-NCPPC, Prince George’s County Planning Board, Bill Tyler Director of M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, and other community leaders. Speakers emphasized the importance of inclusive, modern public spaces that support recreation and wellness for residents of all ages.
“This is what the Department of Parks and Recreation is all about, we want to make sure the community has the resources and facilities to Live More, Play More,” said Bill Tyler, Director of M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County, “Marlow Heights Community Center is a result of the community and the Department working together to create a beautiful space where all can come and enjoy.”
Following the ribbon cutting, the community got an opportunity to tour the facility, participate in class demonstrations, enjoy family-friendly activities, and celebrate the exciting new beginning for Marlow Heights Community Center.
“This is fantastic, the Department did a wonderful job, everyone needs to come to see this,” said Patricia M., a senior participant at Marlow Heights Community Center.
Originally built in 1961, the Marlow Heights Community Center served the community for over half a century before closing in 2023 to undergo major capital improvements. The new state-of-the-art facility is designed to meet the diverse recreational and leisure needs of the community. As a direct response to the input received from the Marlow Heights community, the center is a modern, inclusive, and community-focused hub for all ages, interests, and abilities.
Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, the new community center features a large weights and fitness room, group fitness studio, three multipurpose rooms, spacious lobby – all designed with an emphasis on inclusion and accessibility. The facility also includes a regulation basketball gym that can convert to volleyball or pickleball courts with spectator seating.
Outdoor amenities include a 5,000-square-foot inclusive playground, a 1,500-square-foot splash pad, newly surfaced tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails, ample parking, and spaces designed to showcase and enjoy public art.
Marlow Heights Community Center reopened for normal operating hours on Saturday, April 19. For more information about programs and hours of operation, visit pgparks.com.
