Sparrows Point Park and Recreation Center

Sparrows Point Park and Recreation Center is a 22-acre public recreation facility located on the former site of the Bethlehem Steel mill in Southeast Baltimore County. Once a hub of American industry, the site has been transformed into a vibrant community space that honors its past while serving present-day needs.

At the heart of the project is a 16,000 square foot recreation center featuring a double gymnasium for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and indoor soccer, along with flexible multipurpose rooms for games, activities, and community programs. The building is Baltimore County’s first LEED Platinum-certified recreation facility, highlighting its energy-efficient systems and sustainable construction.

The park includes a full-size synthetic turf field with LED lighting and a 10,000 square foot nautical-themed playground. The playground is fully ADA compliant and features sensory-friendly equipment designed to be accessible to children of all ages and abilities.

Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails with educational signage throughout the park, leading to the edge of Jones Creek, where an ADA-accessible fishing pier and floating kayak launch provide direct access to the water. Over half the site remains undeveloped, preserving natural wetlands and providing habitat for local wildlife.

Developed through a public-private partnership, the project received $25 million in funding from state, local, and federal sources. It is the first major new park in Southeast Baltimore County in more than two decades and was shaped by extensive community input.

Sparrows Point Park will serve as a year-round destination for recreation, education, and wellness. It stands as a model for adaptive reuse and sustainable public development, creating a lasting resource for the surrounding community and honoring the historic significance of its location.