The Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center opened in November at Reedbird Park in Cherry Hill. This follows the opening of BGE Field presented by KELLY in 2021, which is a new turf field constructed at Reedbird Park. Both projects are part of Baltimore City Recreation and Parks’ (BCRP) redevelopment of the Cherry Hill park which was once the location of a landfill.
The Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center is also an aspect of the Reimagine Middle Branch plan which aims to “reconnect South Baltimore to the 11-plus miles of shoreline along the Patapsco River.”
The Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center is fronted by a new community plaza and has three separate pools including a lap pool, a plunge pool with a slide, and a wading pool for kids; an open area with fitness and gym equipment; studios for fitness classes; a gymnasium with a basketball court; and a maker space. A second-story walking track travels through all the different sections of the building.
Two new outdoor basketball ball courts were constructed along Reedbird Ave. in the park. There is also a 100-space parking lot in front of the Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center. Still under construction is three grass fields that will be adjacent to BGE Field presented by KELLY.
BCRP has teamed with GWWO Architects and Floura Teeter Landscape Architects on the plan.
Funding for the $23.1-million Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center comes from City and State bonds, Community Development Block Grant funds, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Program Open Space, a surtax on Horseshoe Casino’s table games for City recreation programs, and Casino Local Impact Fund Grants which is overseen by the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership (SBGP) and the City through the Casino Local Development Council.
A second phase at Reedbird Park could include aspects such as a dog park, outdoor playgrounds, a walking path, and clearing invasive species along the waterfront.
Photo below courtesy of Baltimore City Recreation & Parks
SouthBMore.com photos below
Photos below courtesy of Max Rogers
