Myrtle Point Park
Originally Published: November 14, 2024
Development Moving Forward
In 1997, St. Mary’s County Government (SMCG) acquired approximately 192 acres at Myrtle Point planned for an active recreational and nature park. Friends of Myrtle Point, a community group dedicated to preserving the land as a nature park with passive recreation, organized and provided feedback about the original park master plan. The group was successful in discouraging the development of recreational sports fields at the park. Nearly three decades after first purchasing the land with Maryland’s Program Open Space funds, SMCG is looking to move plans forward.
On September 24th, the Commissioners approved a budget amendment for $28K to fund survey work needed for an additional kayak launch at Myrtle Point. Current plans include a visitors center, two kayak launches, and pavilions and bathrooms. Two roads will connect to the kayak launches and improve handicap beach access. Christina Bishop, project manager for the department, said the visitor center would bring utilities (electric, water, sewer) to the area and could be used for environmental education or rented out for community use. This is notable given the recent closure of the Elms Beach Environmental Center.
Funding history for this project is complicated. Money was allocated over several years, tying up $2.2M in bonds (debt capacity), with a total project cost of $2.795M, before being removed from the budget in FY19. Reallocated funds, at $2.65M in bonds with a total project cost of $3.175M, were added back in FY20 and FY21, then removed again in FY22. Then, in FY23 funding was returned, and in FY24 the amount was $3M in bond funds with a total cost of $3.4M. The cost went unchanged in the FY25 budget. However, the CIP plan through FY30 does not show the $3M in construction costs allocated for use, labeling them as “cost to complete.” The plan for several small amenities, like a boat ramp, kayak launch, and additional trails was due for completion in 2022.
Commissioner Colvin inquired about construction, and Ms. Bishop estimated an FY27 start date. Commissioner Hewitt said Friends of Myrtle Point “doesn’t seem to be around anymore so hopefully we can get this done.” But, he cautioned Bishop to ensure the public was informed because plans for the park were “a big controversy 20 years ago.”
This project is another example of ongoing projects that may unnecessarily restrict available funds. It’s important to remain flexible and plan years in advance. Special attention should be paid to assess how long projects have been on the books, if they are still viable, and whether they will meet resident needs.
