January 22, 2024

Dear Friends,


Did you know about 18 percent of visits to the Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center emergency department are for psychiatric needs? 


Right now, our only hospital’s Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) is a six-bed facility. Together, with our partners, we are taking a giant leap forward to not only support our neighbors who may be struggling in silence, but we are also improving emergency room efficiency. Last year, I included $1 million in my proposed budget to the County Council, which was subsequently passed, and recently I announced an additional $1 million in my upcoming budget proposal for this new unit.


This investment will help enable our Hospital to construct a new 7,000 square foot unit with 24 beds. This new BHU is expected to be completed by the end of 2024 and will also help ease overcrowding for non-psychiatric emergency department patients. Together, we remain committed to a healthier community where we all can live longer, happier lives. 
Community Updates

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs


Being an entrepreneur is not an easy task and requires determination, fortitude, and dedication to making a dream a reality.


That is what makes partnerships between The 3rd, Howard County Economic Development Authority, and the Maryland Women's Business Center so important to enhancing economic competitiveness in the marketplace.


Through this partnership, even more women entrepreneurs will be equipped with crucial tools, resources, and support to help their businesses thrive. Congratulations on this new endeavor, and I wish its ongoing success!

Let's "Meat" to Eat


It’s the first day of Howard County’s Winter Restaurant and Craft Beverages Weeks! There are more than 40 restaurants participating in the most delicious time of the year.


One such restaurant is Tribos Peri Peri Ellicott City that just celebrated their one-year anniversary. With inspirations from Portugal, Mozambique, and Southern Asia, their flavors will send you on a memorable flavor trip. Congratulations on one year, and we wish you many more!


Find all participating restaurants at https://www.visithowardcounty.com/howard-county...

Show Your Purple Pride


As our Baltimore Raven’s gear up for this Sunday’s AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs, let's rally behind our Ravens and paint the town purple. As we light our George Howard Building purple to show off our Raven’s spirit, I encourage you to do the same all week long. Wear your jerseys, wave your flags, and let's make some noise for our team.


To the Ravens, your grit and resilience on the field inspire us all. You've shown what it means to work as a team, to face challenges head-on and to strive for excellence. Howard County stands with you in spirit, cheering for every play, every touchdown and every victory.


Go Ravens! 

“Once Upon a Midnight Dreary …”


On January 19th, we celebrated the enduring legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, an architect of the American Gothic and a true son of literary genius. 


His work, from the melancholic whisper of "The Raven" to the dark depths of "The Tell-Tale Heart," has transcended time and continues to resonate within the hearts and minds of readers. It's a legacy so rich that it even lent its wings to our Baltimore Ravens, infusing the spirit of Poe into every game played.


On Edgar Allan Poe Day, I hope you immersed yourself in the mystery and mastery of Poe's creations, which have become a treasured part of Maryland's cultural tapestry. May his tales of intrigue and imagination inspire us to seek out the beauty in the enigmatic and the joy in the fantastical. To all who find solace and excitement within the embrace of a well-spun yarn, I hope you had a Happy Edgar Allan Poe Day.

Don't Worry, Tell HoCo


Our amazing team in our Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Highways was hard at work this past week, ensuring County maintained roadways were safe. They salted, treated and plowed, focusing first on primary and secondary roads before turning their attention to residential streets once the snow was finished falling. 


This week, if you see areas that need a little extra attention, I encourage you to “Tell HoCo.” This web- and mobile-based application offers residents and visitors a quick and easy way to report non-emergency neighborhood issued, such as potholes, graffiti, sidewalks, traffic signals, signs, sewer or water, parks and more to the County. 


To learn more, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/tell-hoco. 

It's Urgent


As we progress through the year, it's important for Elkridge residents to remember that urgent care centers are a readily available resource for non-emergency medical issues. 


These are valuable resources, especially when your regular doctor or primary care physician is not available. Urgent care facilities offer convenient care for those times when you need medical attention more quickly than a scheduled doctor's appointment can provide.


To assist, we've compiled a list of urgent care centers located within Elkridge, ensuring you have access to care whenever you might need it. For additional information, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/urgent-health-and-wellness.

Taking A Step Outdoors


Are you passionate about the great outdoors and looking for an exciting summer job? Howard County is seeking energetic and enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Adventure and Outdoor Summer Camp Counselors! In this role, you'll have the opportunity to lead, inspire, and oversee campers in a variety of adventurous activities, from archery and canoeing to rock climbing and biking.


Our counselors are chosen for their vibrant enthusiasm, talent, and experience in working with children, as well as their expertise in adventure activities. You'll help create unforgettable summer experiences for our campers, teaching them new skills, and fostering a love for nature and outdoor pursuits.


If you're ready to spend your summer making a positive impact on young lives while enjoying the thrill of adventure, we want to hear from you. Learn more and apply today at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/howardcounty/jobs/4321909/adventure-and-outdoor-summer-camp-counselors.

We're Safe and Sound


After the devastating floods in 2011, 2016 and 2018, it became even more apparent that a flood mitigation strategy that would save lives and preserve our historic town was long overdue. Just 24 days after taking office in December of 2018, I unveiled our Ellicott City Safe and Sound plan. 


Our goal is to protect and preserve as much of our town as possible while advancing the most effective solutions to reduce and divert upland stormwater away from Main Street. Thanks to our team’s continued effort, tenacity, and shared vision, we have set the stage to make 2024 a year of momentous progress. 


Watch our comprehensive update on our progress in Ellicott City in this video.

Boost Your Mood with Food


Howard County promote wellnesss and vitality by encouraging you to 'Boost Your Mood with Food.' Drawing inspiration from the dietary habits of Adventists, renowned for their longevity and mental clarity, we recognize the value of a nutritious diet in maintaining overall health.


Adventists favor a wholesome vegetarian diet, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and legumes, complemented by ample hydration. By emulating these practices, we can enhance our physical fitness and mental alertness. I encourage our community to explore the benefits of clean eating and to join us in making mindful choices that contribute to a vibrant, energetic Howard County.

Human Trafficking Prevention Month 


January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month; a time to unite against a grave injustice that affects individuals regardless of race, age, gender, or nationality. I'd like to express my gratitude for the community's support and acknowledge the tireless efforts of our new manager of Howard County's Office of Human Trafficking Prevention, Ashton Petta.


Join us on January 31st at The 3rd in Columbia for a reception and panel discussion to delve deeper into our initiatives and discover how you can make a meaningful impact. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by human trafficking.

Join My Team!


My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.



I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.

Catalyst Fund Loans for Small Businesses


Powered by Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (HCEDA) and part of Maryland’s Video Lottery Terminal Small, Minority and Woman-Owned Business Account initiative, the Catalyst Fund is locally managed source of capital used to finance start-ups and expanding businesses statewide whose projects will create permanent jobs and leverage private sector investment. Loan funds can be used for normal business uses such as working capital, equipment, real estate, franchise fees and inventory purchases, and loan amounts vary pending availability of funds.


If you are a growth-oriented business in the pre-banking stage and are interested in learning more about the Catalyst Fund Loan program, visit https://hceda.org/business-support/catalyst-loans/. 


Also, HCEDA is now also offering it Collateral Assistance Fund to Howard County businesses. This fund assists companies in satisfying the collateral requirement to secure a catalyst loan.
Government Updates
Department of Community Resources and Services

Prepare to Care, an Event with Family Shared Aging Options

  

Through its Maryland Access Point team, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) will host its “Prepare to Care: Family Shared Aging Options” event tomorrow, January 23rd from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at The Loan Closet of Howard County in Columbia. Designed to teach adult children more about the services and programs available to help their loved one’s age and thrive in place, attendees will learn how to start the caregiving conversation, how to design a plan and ways to assess needs. Resources and services will also be provided for assisted living and nursing facility options. 


To learn more about this event, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/map. For questions and/or more information, contact OAI at 410-313-1234 or email [email protected]. 

Uniting Against Homelessness: Howard County's 2024 Point In Time Count


This Wednesday, January 24th, representatives from DCRS’s Office of Community Partnerships and Coalition to End Homelessness will gather outside DCRS’s office in Columbia at 5:30 p.m., to host a rally to kick-off the 2024 Point In Time (PIT) Count of the county's homeless population. With the assistance of Howard County nonprofit, faith, civic and governmental partners, more than 50 volunteers equipped with backpacks full of supplies and essentials will canvas the night, meeting people experiencing homelessness, gathering information and providing resources to anyone in need. Volunteers from the Howard County Health Department will also be on hand to administer flu and COVID-19 shots to those wanting to be vaccinated.


The annual PIT Count helps identify our most vulnerable residents, raises awareness about homelessness, helps secure federal and state funding for local homelessness programs, and contributes to long-term strategies for reducing homelessness. If you are interested in joining the fight against homelessness in Howard County, I encourage you to: 

  • Learn about the resources currently available to assist homeless residents – if you know of someone who needs help, contact the Grassroots Crisis Intervention Hotline at 410-531-6677; 
  • Volunteer with a nonprofit;
  • Share information with your faith community and professional organizations; and/or
  • Join the Coalition to End Homelessness Board.


Together, we can assist those facing homelessness and bring an end to it for good. 

2024 Howard County Child Care Fair 


Join DCRS’ Office of Children and Families (OCF) this Sunday, January 28th for its 2024 Howard County Child Care Fair. Set to take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the North Laurel Community Center, this annual fair provides parents, guardians and grandparents with a “one stop shop” for child care, preschool, school-age and summer programs, as well as the opportunity to connect with teachers and program directors. 


Throughout the day, OCF staff will be holding free informational sessions on “How to Choose an Early Childhood Program.” During the sessions, participants will learn how to find quality child care that meets their family’s needs, is convenient, affordable, healthy and safe. Attendees interested in viewing this session ahead of time are invited to join OCF virtually this Wednesday, January 24th at 7:00 p.m. for its “Selecting High Quality Child Care” workshop. To register to participate in this free workshop, click HERE.


While registration for the Child Care Fair is not necessary to attend, it is encouraged for this free event.


For more information about this event and/or to request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to participate, contact OCF’s CARE Line at 410-313-2273 (voice/relay) or email [email protected]. 

Partner2Prevent – A Howard County Human Trafficking Awareness Event 


I encourage all to join DRCS’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention and Howard County’s Human Trafficking Prevention Coordination Council next Wednesday, January 31st for a panel discussion in honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Partner2Prevent. This event will take place at The 3rd in Columbia and will highlight how Howard County will continue its anti-trafficking work and prevention throughout this new year. With light catering and an opportunity to network and learn from direct service providers, the event will begin at 6:00 p.m., with the panel discussion starting at 7:00 p.m.


Come learn how organizations and community members in Howard County can be survivor-centered and how you can join in the fight to prevent human trafficking. 


To register to participate in this event – registration is required, click HERE today.

HoCo Community Chat’s January Episode Focuses on Human Trafficking Prevention


In recognition of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, for this month’s episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is joined by Office of Human Trafficking Prevention Manager Ashton Petta and Howard County Police Department Vice and Narcotics Unit (HCPD) and Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinating Council member Lieutenant Eric Kruhm to take on the heavy topic of human trafficking. In the podcast, the three discuss what trafficking looks like today and address resources available and ways to make our community and country a safer place.  


Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at [email protected]. 

Medicare Mayhem


To ensure you are prepared for a confident and secure healthcare future, I encourage you to join representatives from DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection and OAI’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) on Friday, February 2nd for an enlightening presentation on Medicare. This event aims to empower participants with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, gain insights and clarity on navigating their healthcare options. The event will start at 10:00 a.m. and will take place at our Glenwood 50+ Center in Cooksville. To register to participate, call 410-313-5440.

2024 Howard County Resource Guide Now Available


OAI’s annual Howard County Resource Guide contains up-to-date information about health and wellness, financial planning, legal services, housing options and more to help county residents age well and plan for their future. You can find OAI’s 2024 Howard County Resource Guide online, with hard copies soon to be available at its 50+ Centers and Howard County Library System branches.  

Office of Emergency Management

Earning Prestigious National Accreditation


As I recently shared, our Department of Corrections is only the second local jurisdiction in Maryland to earn prestigious national accreditation from the American Correctional Association. After an extensive application and audit process, the County was awarded earlier this month the highest industry accreditation for the next three years based on practices, procedures and policies that uphold a host of mandatory and compliance standards for corrections facilities.


Our Corrections team is diligent and committed to the safety and well-being of our inmates and our staff. This peer review proves we are among the best, at not just supplying the basic levels of health care and meals and safety, but offering hope and opportunity for the future. Our detainees are treated with respect and provided programs to improve so they can be productive members of our community when released.

Howard County Health Department

Promote. Preserve. Protect.


The Howard County Health Department (HCHD) has released its 2023 Annual Report. This report highlights how HCHD used strategic partnerships this past year to better reach Howard County’s diverse populations. 


In recent years, the health disparities that exist in our community have become more pronounced. To address these gaps, HCHD has shifted to be intentional in how it works, forming partnerships and launching projects in alignment with the priorities laid out in its strategic plan focus areas: Maternal & Infant Health, Behavioral Health and Healthy Lifestyle. This report shows the work HCHD is doing to achieve health equity and ensure optimal wellness is accessible to all who live, work and visit our great county.  

Department of Housing and Community Development

Applications Now Being Accepted for MIHU January Open Enrollment Period 


Applications are now being accepted for our Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) January open enrollment period’s Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) homeownership program. Held quarterly, DHCD’s MIHU is an inclusionary zoning program that offers quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to income eligible families.


To purchase an MIHU home, individuals must apply to DHCD during an open enrollment period to be placed in the database. Applicants with a combined annual household income of a minimum of $55,000 are eligible to apply; applicants who do not meet this minimum amount are not eligible for this program. Additionally, applicants must meet credit score requirements and household income must be sufficient to qualify for a mortgage based on industry standards (click HERE for more information). Sale prices for available MIHU homes, currently range from $244,300 for a new condominium to $370,000 for a new townhouse. Actual sale prices may vary depending on the size and amenities of the unit. More details regarding our MIHU homeownership program are available HERE or contact DHCD at 410-313-6318 (select option two) or email [email protected].

 

To rent an MIHU unit, a qualified applicant’s household income may not exceed 60 percent of the Howard County median income (click HERE for more information). MIHUs are rented on a first-come, first-served basis, are interspersed throughout each community and residents enjoy the same amenities of community life as market rate tenants. Visit DHCD’s MIHU rental website for more information.


MIHU homeownership applications are now available online and completed applications can be either submitted online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only. Applications are being accepted through 4:00 p.m., next Wednesday, January 31st.  

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Important OHRE Commission Public Meeting Dates


Under our Office of Human Rights and Equity, you’ll find five Commissions, each committed to furthering human rights and equity throughout Howard County in their own very distinct capacities. Each month, these Commission’s host meetings, public hearings and/or retreats open to the public to discuss ongoing/upcoming matters, events, programs and so on. For dates, times and details regarding this month’s Commission meetings, please see below: 

Bystander Intervention & Cultural Awareness Training

 

Held quarterly, OHRE’s Bystander Intervention and Cultural Awareness (BICA) certification training helps participants learn how to protect and promote the humanity of those who are being targeted or harassed in their presence because of their race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender or sexual orientation.  


Residents 12 and older are encouraged to join OHRE, who has partnered with Christ United Methodist Church to host this quarter’s training, this Sunday, January 28th at 3:00 p.m. at Owen Brown Interfaith Center. To secure your spot for this free training event, click HERE today.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Gateway Master Plan Kick Off Event

 

Help shape the future of Columbia’s Gateway, by joining our Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) and its consultant team this Thursday, January 25th for its Gateway Open House. Participants will learn more about the Gateway Master Plan process and provide feedback on Gateway's future as an innovation district. 


This open house event will take place at 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia, with doors opening at 4:00 pm, followed by a brief presentation at 4:30 p.m. that will be repeated at 6:00 p.m. After each presentation, there will be time for attendees to speak with DPZ and the team at different stations and offer feedback. Please note that while registration is not required, it is helpful for planning purposes.


For more information, to register or to sign up to receive updates about the Gateway Master Plan, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway.

2023 Downtown Columbia Redevelopment Monitoring Report is Complete!


DPZ has completed the 2023 Downtown Columbia Redevelopment Monitoring Report. The 2023 report revisits the Plan’s original recommendations, documents what has been accomplished and lays out the progress anticipated over the next five years. This report provides the second update on the implementation of the 2010 Downtown Columbia Plan.


The Downtown Columbia Plan was adopted as an amendment to PlanHoward 2030, the County's previous General Plan, and creates a 30-year master plan for the revitalization and redevelopment of Downtown Columbia. HoCo By Design, the County’s new General Plan, carries forward the Downtown Columbia Plan. Focused on new construction, transportation assets, arts and culture, and the environment, the Downtown Columbia Redevelopment Monitoring Report provides a status update every five years regarding the implementation of the goals and vision laid out for Downtown Columbia in the master plan.


When envisioning Columbia, James Rouse hoped to create a place that fostered growth, where residents could live and work, and that respected the land - a city in a garden. Through our Downtown Columbia Plan we aim to fulfill Rouse’s goals, while moving them forward into a new era. With his inspiration and the modern principles of a city, we hope to create an ecosystem brimming with fresh possibilities and a bright future.

Route 1 Tax Credit Program

 

DPZ is accepting applications for this year’s Route 1 Tax Credit program! If you own a commercial or industrial property on the Route 1 Corridor, you may be eligible to receive up to $100,000 of tax credit for qualified façade and landscape improvements visible from the Corridor area. Eligible improvements include building façade upgrades, new signage, exterior painting and lighting, screening and landscaping, and other options. 


For more information or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.

Police Department

Too Cold for You Outside, Too Cold for Your Pets


With winter weather here to stay for a while, our Howard County Police Department and its Animal Control Division are reminding residents that Howard County law requires animals housed outside must have access to appropriate shelter, bedding and an unfrozen water source at all times. Dogs may not be tethered outside when not under direct supervision; this means you must be out there with them. Please keep in mind, these requirements are the bare minimum and if it's too cold for you outside, it's probably too cold for your dog or cat.  


To report a violation, please contact Animal Control at 410-313-2780. Violations can lead to civil citations, criminal charges and/or impoundment of one's pet.


For safety tips on how to keep your pet safe during the cold winter months, such as cleaning snow and salt from their paws, legs and stomach, check out the ASPCA’s “Cold Weather Safety Tips” website.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Nominees Sought for “Business Recycling and Waste Reduction” and “Green Community Leadership” Awards


Our Bureau of Environmental Services has announced nomination forms are now available for its annual “Business Recycling and Waste Reduction” and “Green Community Leadership” awards. The Business Recycling and Waste Reduction Award recognizes Howard County businesses for their efforts during the 2023 calendar year. The Green Community Leadership Award recognizes a Howard County-based community group, school or organization that demonstrates efforts, projects or programs that help protect Howard County’s natural environment and preserve its resources. This award is open to community groups, schools and organizations that are based in Howard County. 


Nomination forms are available online at www.workgreenhoward.org. All nominations must be delivered or postmarked by 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 11th to: Meleine Yao, Recycling Coordinator, 9801 Broken Land Parkway, Columbia, MD 21046, or email [email protected] (email preferred). 


Awards will be presented at the 17th annual Howard County GreenFest on Saturday, April 13th at Howard Community College. 


For more information, or to request a nomination form in an alternate format, contact the Bureau of Environmental Services at 410-313-6444 or email [email protected]. For information about the Bureau’s Work Green program, visit www.workgreenhoward.org.  

Curbside Yard Trim Season Ends


As a reminder, for those that ONLY receive yard trim curbside collection, the Bureau’s yard trim collection season has come to an end. Now until the new season resumes on Monday, April 1st, residents can drop their yard trim off at the Alpha Ridge Landfill’s Wood Waste Area to recycle their yard trim or place it out with their curbside trash collection for trash pickup.


Please keep in mind, this DOES NOT APPLY to residents participating in the Bureau’s Feed the Green Bin food scrap collection program, who receive year-round food scrap/yard trim collection. To see if you are in a Feed the Green Bin area, click HERE.

Special Household Hazardous Waste Days 


While the County's Bureau of Environmental Services' regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule is on hiatus until the first Saturday of April, the 6th, the Bureau will being hosting three SPECIAL HHW collection days this winter at the Alpha Ridge Landfill. While the Bureau hosted its first SPECAL HHW event earlier this month, its second and third collection events will take place on Saturday, February 3rd and Saturday, March 2nd On these days, Howard County residents will be able to properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill. To learn more about this program and what is accepted/not accepted, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.

Stormwater Management Division

Cedar Acres Stormwater Pond Repair Project


Howard County Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting next Tuesday, January 30th at 6:00 p.m., in the Belmont Room of Howard County Library System’s Elkridge branch, to discuss the Cedar Acres Stormwater Pond Repair project. 

 

The proposed project is located near 8328 Granville Road in Jessup and will include the replacement of the old metal outlet structure with a new concrete outlet structure that has a longer service life span. The project will also bring the pond into compliance with current Maryland Department of the Environment requirements.


The informal meeting will include an overview of the existing design followed by an open discussion. County staff and the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments. 


Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Bill Liu with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6416 or email [email protected].

Bureau of Utilities

Tips on How to Keep Pipes from Freezing as Temperatures Dip


With winter underway and below freezing temperatures already making themselves known, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities is offering residents tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. These tips are especially important for water pipes located in a crawlspace or on an outside wall, or garage, attic or any other unheated building, which are subject to sub-freezing temperatures. 


If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame.  


To learn more, click HERE.

Public Works Construction Report

Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.


Columbia

  • Little Patuxent River Sewer Stabilization (Capital Project S-6601) – Project to stabilize an exposed public sewer at a stream crossing located in a wooded area off Broken Land Parkway. During construction hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., southbound Broken Land Parkway will be temporarily reduced to two lanes just south of Cradlerock Way to allow construction vehicles access to the job site. Arrow boards and signs will be posted near the project area to advise motorists and pedestrians of the project and corresponding lane closure and shift. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late April.


Ellicott City

  • Hale Haven Drive Drainage Improvement (Capital Project ) – Project to improve the existing storm drain adjacent to 4701 Hale Haven Drive. Property owners affected by the project will be notified prior to the start date. The project is not expected to impact the flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-February.


To learn about DPW projects currently underway, click HERE. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email [email protected] for further assistance.

 

If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.

Department of Recreation and Parks

Get Ready for Summer Camps


Recreation & Parks 2024 Summer Camp Guide is now available online! With online registration for Howard County residents to begin Wednesday, January 31st at 6:00 p.m., be sure to stop by Recreation & Parks' Camp Fair on January 27th at its North Laurel Community Center from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., to snag your $5 camp registration coupon and for a FREE sneak peek of all the fun to be had at this year’s summer camps. The Fair will feature a variety of activities, the opportunity to meet some of our camp instructors and the chance to have your questions answered. 


For more information about this year's Camp Fair, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/camp-fair.

Putting Your Best Foot Forward at the Family Sneaker Ball 


Recreation & Parks has taken the traditional family dance and kicked it up a notch with its Family Sneaker Ball. This fun, family-friendly event that is sure to knock your socks off will take place next Saturday, February 3rd from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at North Laurel Community Center. Come dressed in semi-formal attire and be sure to bring your dancing shoes, or sneakers, to dance the night away. 

 

Geared towards children ages three to 12, the cost to participate for one child and one adult is $25 for center members and $15 for each additional participant. For non-center members, the cost for one child and one adult is $35 and again, $15 for each additional participant. 


To learn more or to register to participate, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/family-sneaker-ball. 

National Girls and Women in Sports Day 


Come celebrate the power and passion of girls and women in sports at Recreation & Parks’ inaugural National Girls and Women in Sports Day on Sunday, February 4th from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at our North Laurel Community Center. Part of a national movement celebrating the achievements and contributions of girls and women in sports, this event will feature a multi-sport clinic from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. where participants can try their hand at a variety of sports, followed by a watch party event from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., featuring an inspiring sports movie that is sure to leave you feeling empowered. 


To learn more about this FREE event, visit www.hcrpsports.org/ngwsd. 

The Life and Times of The Temptations 


Don’t miss out on the electrifying new musical about the greatest R&B group of all time, The Temptations, by reserving your ticket today for Recreation & Parks’ group trip to the Kennedy Center on Saturday, February 17th to see “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations.” With their signature dance moves and harmonies, The Temptations rose to the top of the charts, while sharing their moving story that still resonates with us five decades later. The show features such iconic hits as “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and more. To learn more about this trip, click HERE.  

Office of Transportation

Public Comment Sought on Shared Electric Scooter Permit Process


With the next permit period for our shared electric scooters in Downtown Columbia and the surrounding area set to begin next month, our Office of Transportation is seeking public feedback on the permit process. I invite you to join Transportation’s Multimodal Transportation Board at 6:00 p.m. tomorrow, January 23rd for its next monthly virtual meeting, which will include a discussion about changes that have been made since the initial pilot. Participants will also have the opportunity to present testimony on the permit process. Those interested in providing comment during the meeting are asked to email [email protected] by 9:00 a.m. on the 23rd to sign-up to speak. 

 

Following the meeting, the information will also be available on Transportation’s “Bikeshare & Shared Electric Scooters” webpage.

Transportation Open House


I invite you to attend join Transportation on Tuesday, January 30th (inclement weather date is February 6th) for its new Transportation Open House. Set to take place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Kenneth S. Ulman Innovation Hub in Columbia, this expanded event incorporates our Active Transportation and Transportation Priorities Open Houses and includes additional topics areas of transportation safety, Complete Streets, transit and regional planning, and roadway maintenance and operations. This open house event will also provide attendees with the opportunity to comment on the County's overall transportation priorities, approaches to solving common transportation challenges and specific projects.


Additionally, representatives from DPW’s Transportation & Special Projects Division will be on hand with information on the following projects: 

  • Snowden River Parkway Sidewalk (MD 108 to Tamar Drive); 
  • Northfield Road Sidewalk Phases 2,4 (Southfield Road to Columbia Road); 
  • Deep Run Community Pathway (Deep Run Parkway to Mayfield Woods Middle School); 
  • Old Annapolis Road Sidewalk (Font Hill Drive to Old Willow Way); 
  • Frederick Road Sidewalk (Howard County Library System Miller branch to Underoak Drive); 
  • 6th Street North Sidewalk (Meredith Avenue to Decatur Road); 
  • Old Montgomery Road Sidewalk (MD 108 to Brightfield Road); 
  • Whiskey Bottom Road Sidewalk Segment B (Harmony Lane to All Saints Road); 
  • US 1 Sidewalk (Laurel Park Entrance to North Laurel Road);
  • Patuxent Branch Trail Improvements; and 
  • South Entrance Trail.


To learn more about our Transportation Open House, click HERE.
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