ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today announced several impactful investments for the Elkridge community in his Fiscal Year 2026 Capital budget. Investments include funding for the Elkridge Community and 50+ Center, park improvements, and transportation enhancements.
“As our oldest city in Howard County, Elkridge holds a rich history, culture and charm,” said Ball. “For many years, the residents of Elkridge have been advocating for much needed community improvements. I am happy to announce today a series of capital projects that will connect Elkridge while maintaining its unique identity.”
In his FY25 budget, Ball purchased 25 acres of land for the Elkridge Community and 50+ Center. In his FY26 proposed Capital Budget, Ball will allocate $25 million for this center, the largest project of the Elkridge package. The 67,000 square-foot facility will feature a gymnasium, multi-purpose spaces, and a dedicated 50+ Center. There is also an additional 23,000 square feet, on top of the 67,000 feet, that will be dedicated to a future pool facility.
For decades, residents have had to travel to other parts of the county for recreational programs and activities. This project will be the new location of the Elkridge 50+ Center, replacing the existing facility that is co-located with the Elkridge Branch library. At least 14,000 square feet of space will be dedicated for older adults, eclipsing the current 9,000 square foot Elkridge 50+ Center, which many have said was too small when opened. Howard County’s older adult population is one of the fastest growing age demographics in the county. Through this expanded 50+ Center, aging residents in Elkridge will have better access to programs, services, and amenities that enhance their quality of life.
“These investments in the Elkridge Community Center, our parks, and transportation infrastructure, as outlined by the County Executive, are not just about building facilities; they are about building a stronger, more connected, and more vibrant Elkridge,” said Nick Mooneyhan, Director of Howard County Department of Recreation and Park. “They are about creating a community where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
“This project is a testament to commitment and vision of County Executive Ball to create a true Age Friendly community,” said Jackie Scott, Director of the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services. “With an eye towards creating spaces filled with exciting options for our 50+ community to enjoy their daily lives, this center will have it all. Whether you desire intergenerational opportunities, gathering with friends for a morning walk and wellness classes, or a quiet time by the fireplace with a good book, our new Elkridge 50+ center will have something for you. Additionally, with close to 5,000 more square feet from our current site, we will be able to bring our Connections Social Day Program to Elkridge and provide services for our most vulnerable older adults living here in the neighborhood. The community has spoken, we have listened and are excited to work together to create a vibrant community for all in this new space.”
The Elkridge Community Center will also feature a new, iconic public art installation through the Arts for All program in partnership with the Howard County Arts Council. The nationally recognized public art firm, MIG, has been commissioned to help procure the public artwork for the Elkridge Community Center.
“Today, with County Executive Ball’s announcement of $500,000 for Arts For All in Elkridge, we are not only making a strong commitment to integrating art into public spaces – we are taking a significant step forward in making the arts accessible to all,” said Coleen West, Executive Director of the Howard County Arts Council. “With this investment, we will be commissioning one or more permanent sculptures at the Elkridge Community Center that will leave a lasting legacy.”
“Public art has the power to transform spaces, foster community pride, and create lasting cultural connections. With the launch of the Arts for All program and the selection of Elkridge Community Center as a public art site, we are ensuring that creativity is woven into the fabric of everyday life in Howard County,” said Ann Berchtold, Director of Public Art and Placemaking, MIG. “As the Public Art Consultant for this procurement, my role is to guide a process that is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the community’s vision. This initiative is about more than just installing art—it’s about engaging residents, amplifying local voices, and making art accessible to all. We are excited to collaborate with the community to bring this vision to life and create a piece that truly reflects the spirit of Elkridge.”
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball’s proposed budget also includes $1.1 million to strengthen infrastructure in and around Elkridge through Complete Streets projects. Among the transportation projects to make Elkridge more walkable and accessible are:
- The Montgomery Road Pedestrian and Bike Improvement Project to create safer routes for walker and cyclists along Montgomery Road from Rowanberry Drive to Marshalee Drive;
- The Troy Park Neighborhood Connections Project, better linking neighborhoods to recreational spaces; and
- New sidewalks along Old Washington Road from Abel Street to Montgomery Road to create a pedestrian connection to the Elkridge Community Center.
Last week, Howard County Executive Ball also launched HoCo RapidRide, a new innovative technology-enabled public microtransit service program that connects residents living in Elkridge, Jessup, and Savage with popular destinations along and just west of the Route One Corridor. HoCo RapidRide uses an app that matches other passengers headed in the same direction into one vehicle. It is meant to complement Howard County’s existing public transportation system through the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA). To launch the service and encourage ridership, all rides on HoCo RapidRide will be free for the first month through April 17, 2025.
Elkridge’s green spaces will receive major enhancements with a proposed $2.1 million to upgrade Ilchester Park, Troy Park and Rockburn Branch Park. Among the improvements include new amenities and recreational opportunities at Ilchester Park.
Howard County has already taken major steps to preserve Elkridge’s history by securing $120,000 in funding to restore the Brumbaugh House and establish a new Elkridge History Museum. Additionally, the County has purchased nine acres in Lawyers Hill to prevent overdevelopment and create a future pocket park.
“As a long time Elkridge resident, recent county attention and investments in my local community have been a long time coming and are a very welcome addition,” said Cathy Hudson, Elkridge resident. “Dr. Ball’s upcoming budget promises to meet many of our community’s needs.”
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